Three the Hard Way

Three the Hard Way is a high-intensity action film from the early 1970s, directed by Gordon Parks Jr., and penned by screenwriter Eric Bercovici. The well-choreographed action sequences, gripping narrative, and layered performances from a stellar cast have ensured the film's status as a classic in the blaxploitation era of cinema.

The film features three renowned actors of color in the lead roles - Jim Brown, Fred Williamson, and Jim Kelly. This fiercely dynamic trio is the fulcrum of this action-packed narrative that weaves together themes of camaraderie, resistance, and empowerment, couched in a thrilling plot that oscillates between drama, action, and suspense.

Jim Brown plays Jimmy Lait, a music industry mogul operating from Los Angeles. At the same time, Fred Williamson delivers a charismatic performance as Jagger Daniels, a suave, Chicago-based entrepreneur, and Jim Kelly embodies the character of Mister Keyes, an affable martial artist based in New York. Together, they form an indomitable trio, their distinct personas adding layers of complexity to their characters and their interplaying dynamics elevating the film's overall narrative.

Three The Hard Way integrates a thread of a distinct socio-political narrative into its high-energy action plot. The heroes are faced with the challenging task of dismantling a malevolent plot orchestrated by the perversely sinister Monroe Feather, masterfully played by Jay Robinson. Feather, the leader of a radical white supremacist group, intends to carry out a racially targeted genocide by introducing poison into water supplies of Detroit, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C.

The task at hand plunges Lait, Daniels, and Keyes into a realm teeming with danger at every corner, forcing them to harmonize their respective specialties and come together. The film thus embarks on an adrenaline-fueled journey through the heartlands of America, gallantly represented by our troika of protagonists who are willing to take on the odds and fight for justice.

One of the standout aspects of the film is its energetic action sequences. Known for his adept handling of action sequences, Gordon Parks Jr., who had demonstrated his prowess in Superfly (1972), ups the ante with Three The Hard Way. The fight scenes, particularly those featuring Jim Kelly, are skillfully choreographed, generating a palpable sense of tension and excitement that pumps through the veins of the narrative. These scenes are beautifully punctuated by the expert cinematography of Lucien Ballard, who creates a visually absorbing and dynamic landscape that supports the pulsating rhythm of the film.

Beyond its thrilling action set-pieces and plot-infused controversies, Three The Hard Way is also known for its significant cultural reflections. The film sits at the junction of the blaxploitation era of the 70s and the period's socio-political unrest. It channels the tense racial and societal environment of the time, creating a narrative that resonates with audiences even now due to its themes of empowerment and resistance.

The robust musical score by The Impressions and a solo track by Curtis Mayfield enhance the film’s atmosphere brilliantly, contributing directly to the effective storytelling. The unyielding energy of Mayfield's "Make a Resolution," synchronizes with the film’s tenor, amplifying the overall cinematic experience.

Three The Hard Way also boasts an ensemble supporting cast of characters, including Sheila Frazier, who plays Brown's love interest, and Alex Rocco, who plays the sadistic Lieutenant Di Nisco, whose performances add depth to the plot and aid in driving the narrative forward.

At its core, Three The Hard Way is a gripping mixture of action, drama, and societal commentary that transcends its period of release, making it relevant to the present day. Despite being a product of the blaxploitation era, the film is a testament to the timeless power of cinema that can enthrall, engage, and stimulate viewers, promising a compelling cinematic experience to its viewer, replete with high-voltage action and a riveting narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.