Hard Times (2005): cast, story & where to watch
2005 · Film · ★ 5.8
Released in 2005, Hard Times is a drama film directed by Manuel Martín Cuenca, running about 115 minutes.
What it’s about. When the troubled son of an NGO worker refuses to take a test and announces that he is not leaving his room, his concerned mother asks one of her clients, a Cuban exile, for help in setting the boy straight. Gonzalo has decided to drop out of school, and his mother Ana isn't sure how to convince the boy that he's making a crucial mistake. Ana's client Carlos is a Cuban exile who makes his living selling cigars and artwork on the black market. When Carlos learns of Ana's dilemma, he calls on recently released convict Mikel to teach the boy how to play chess. Perhaps is young Gonzalo can master the game, he can learn to start living again. As the lessons get underway, each of these characters learns that in order to truly move on with their lives they much first break free of the bonds that prevent them from being who they really are.
Who’s in it. Hard Times stars Javier Cámara as Mikel, Nathalie Poza as Ana, Eman Xor Oña as Carlos and Leonor Watling as Laura, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.8/10, Hard Times has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Hard Times page.
If you liked it. Fans of Hard Times tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Hard Times (2005)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Hard Times change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Hard Times worth watching?
- Hard Times holds an audience score of 5.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Hard Times?
- Hard Times stars Javier Cámara, Nathalie Poza, Eman Xor Oña, Leonor Watling and Gonzalo Pedrosa.
- When was Hard Times released?
- Hard Times was released in 2005, with a runtime of about 115 minutes.