Harsh Times
By Michael Stewart
November 21, 2006 - 16:52
Harsh Times 
2006 - Rated R - Runtime 120mins
Written and Directed by David Ayer
Christian Bale as Jim Davis
Freddy Rodriguez as Mike Alonzo
Eva Longoria as Sylvia
This movie stars Christian Bale as the demented Jim Davis, a former Army Ranger just returning from duty in the middle east war. He has finished a six year contract and now he seeks civilian employment.
Bale portrays all of the characters he plays much in the same manner, and his choice of roles is great because he really makes you believe he's this crazy ex-army guy! Bale specializes in playing people with emotional turmoil.
Spoiler(Highlight to read)
Jim Davis and his buddy Mike Alonzo go out for a ride on the town and end up in very precarious situations. One in which Jim is jumped by 4 street gangsters(including 1 female) which made me laugh to see her get out of the car and run after Jim Davis. Initially they give Bale(Jim Davis) a beating and kick him while he's on the ground, but then Jim being the Army Ranger tha he is uses his military hand to hand training and ends up having all four of these people on their knees while he robs them at gun-point.
Throughout the movie are many flashbacks of Jim Davis' memories from the war, but later these are deduced to minor flashes that just change colors still showing the present scene without showing any actual memories.
End of spoiler!
Overall I would say this is a worthwhile movie, but not one for kids. If you have served in the military or you know someone who has then I would definately recommend this film. Harsh Times really shows how hard it is for some people to adpat back to normal life after traumatic experiences.
My Rating : B+
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