Ben Hardy, the British actor who rose to fame on the soap opera “EastEnders,” has carved a diverse path in the film industry. He’s tackled roles in action-packed thrillers, heartfelt dramas, and quirky comedies, showcasing his range and talent. Let’s delve into some of ben hardy movies and see how critics and audiences have reacted to his performances.
Early Steps: From Albert Square to the Silver Screen
Before gracing the big screen, Hardy made his mark on British television. His portrayal of Peter Beale in “EastEnders” (2013-2015) garnered him recognition and established him as a rising star. He transitioned to film in 2016 with a small role in the biographical drama “Mary Shelley,” a film exploring the life of the famed author of Frankenstein. While the role itself wasn’t substantial, it marked Hardy’s entry into the world of feature films.
Action Hero Aspirations: X-Men Universe and Beyond
2016 proved to be a turning point for Hardy’s film career. He landed the coveted role of Angel in Bryan Singer’s “X-Men: Apocalypse,” a superhero film set in the X-Men universe. The film itself received mixed reviews, with some critics finding the plot formulaic and the villain forgettable. However, Hardy’s portrayal of the mutant with metallic wings was generally praised for its charm and energy. He brought a youthful enthusiasm to the role, making Angel a standout character despite the film’s shortcomings.
This foray into action films set the stage for Hardy’s role in the 2019 action thriller “The Photograph.” He plays CIA analyst Mason Wells, caught in a web of conspiracy and espionage alongside Cuba Gooding Jr. Critics found the film’s plot predictable, relying on familiar tropes of the genre. But some acknowledged Hardy’s charisma and commitment to the role, even if the overall film failed to impress.
Breaking the Mold: Indie Gems and Quirky Comedies
Beyond action-oriented roles, Hardy has demonstrated his versatility by taking on projects in other genres. In 2017, he starred in the independent drama “Pixie,” alongside Olivia Cooke. The film, a quirky coming-of-age story set in the stunning Irish countryside, showcased Hardy’s comedic timing and ability to portray a charming yet complex character. Critics praised the film’s offbeat humor and the undeniable chemistry between Hardy and Cooke. His performance as the charmingly roguish businessman named Boxer highlighted Hardy’s ability to go beyond the typical action hero persona.
His comedic talents were further explored in 2021 with “The Voyeurs,” a dark comedy thriller directed by Michael Mohan. Hardy plays Iain, a seemingly mild-mannered therapist who becomes entangled in the twisted lives of a voyeuristic couple. While the film received mixed reviews, some critics appreciated Hardy’s performance, noting his ability to add a layer of humor and intrigue to the otherwise unsettling plot. They pointed out how Hardy managed to create a character that was both strangely likable and deeply unsettling, keeping the audience guessing about his true motives.
Critical Acclaim and Awards Recognition: A Shift in Focus
In 2022, Hardy took a dramatic turn with his performance in “The Girl Before.” This psychological thriller tells the story of Jane (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), a young woman who moves into a minimalist dream apartment, only to discover a dark secret connected to the previous tenant, played by Emily Beecham. Hardy portrays the enigmatic architect of the building, Edward Monkford, delivering a performance that garnered critical acclaim. Critics praised his ability to create a sense of mystery and tension, with some highlighting his performance as a career-best. They noted the way Hardy embodied the character’s ambiguity, leaving the audience to question his true intentions throughout the film. This critically acclaimed role has put Hardy on the map as a serious dramatic actor, proving his ability to excel beyond superhero films and action thrillers.
A Look at the Reviews: What Audiences Think
While critical reception can vary, audience response to Hardy’s films offers another perspective. His action-oriented roles in “X-Men: Apocalypse” and “The Photograph” were generally well-received by fans of the genre, who appreciated his portrayal of heroic characters. They enjoyed the action sequences and found Hardy to be a charismatic addition to the cast.
Films like “Pixie” and “The Voyeurs” resonated with audiences who enjoy quirky humor and offbeat narratives. Hardy’s comedic timing and ability to blend humor with drama were noted by many viewers. They praised his ability to deliver witty
FAQs
Q: What are some of Ben Hardy’s most popular movies?
A: Here are a few of Hardy’s notable films:
X-Men: Apocalypse (2016): Hardy takes on the role of the mutant Angel in this superhero film.
Bohemian Rhapsody (2018): He portrays Roger Taylor, drummer for the legendary rock band Queen, in this biographical drama.
Only the Brave (2017): This biographical drama features Hardy as firefighter Donald “ſchef”** [difficult to transcribe word – possibly Scheffel or Scheffen? – best to leave it out]** in the Granite Mountain Hotshots crew.
Mary Poppins Returns (2018): Hardy plays the charismatic lamplighter Jack in this musical fantasy sequel.
Unicorns (2023): This recent release sees Hardy starring alongside Dev Patel in a currently limited release. Reviews for this film are particularly positive (we’ll explore that in a moment!).
Q: Where can I find reviews for Ben Hardy’s movies?
A: Several websites offer reviews and user ratings for films:
Rotten Tomatoes: This popular platform provides critic and audience scores, giving you a general sense of how a movie was received.
Metacritic: Similar to Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic aggregates reviews from critics and assigns a score.
User Reviews: Many movie databases and streaming platforms allow users to leave their own reviews. These can offer diverse perspectives on a film.
Q: You mentioned positive reviews for Unicorns. Can you tell me more?
A: Yes! “Unicorns” has received critical acclaim, currently boasting a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers have praised the film’s story, the performances of Hardy and Patel, and its emotional depth. However, it’s important to note that due to its limited release, the number of reviews might be lower compared to Hardy’s other films.
Q: Should I base my movie choices solely on reviews?
A: Reviews offer valuable insights, but consider your own preferences too! Read reviews to understand the general themes and tones of the films.
Genre: Do you enjoy superhero movies, biographical dramas, or musicals?
Critical Reception: While reviews are subjective, a generally well-received film might be a safe bet.
Personal Interest: Is there a specific storyline or historical period that piques your curiosity?
By considering both reviews and your interests, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a Ben Hardy movie you’ll enjoy!
Q: Are there any resources to learn more about Ben Hardy’s work?
A: Absolutely! Here are some suggestions:
IMDB (Internet Movie Database): This comprehensive website provides filmographies, biographies, and trivia about actors.
Youtube: You might find interviews with Hardy, trailers for his films, or even clips from his performances.
Happy Watching!
With this FAQ guide, you have the tools to explore Ben Hardy’s filmography and make informed movie choices. Enjoy the journey!
To Read More; click here
