HARDCORE HENRY (2016) Movie Review
1 Corinthians 16:14 says, "And do everything with love." (NLT)
Hardcore Henry
is an action packed thrill ride with a fascinating twist. It certainly succeeds in its appearance of a video game. The entire film is shot from the point of view of Henry. He has no memories, and he cannot speak. His primary skill is fighting. The rescue of his wife is his only motivation.
However, Henry learns that not all is as it appears. Throughout his adventure, he makes friends, learns truths, and regains his memory. The lesson he learns in this memory completely overpowers the “love” for a wife of whom he has no memory. This single memory changes his motivation. The need to save his wife becomes a need to save the world.
Our memories and experiences make us who we are. They give us empathy. They motivate and drive us. They give us the desire to help and prevent the suffering of others. Because Henry is a victim of bullying, he finds his strongest motivation of all. Defeat the bullies. Prevent tyranny. Save the world.
Philippians 1:18 says, "But that doesn’t matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice." (NLT)
One of my own greatest lessons in life is such. I refuse to allow my circumstances to affect me. Instead, I use my experience to better myself and give others the strongest testimony possible. I use my pain and suffering to help, guide, and inspire those around me.
So, does Henry. He does not allow his circumstances to define him. He does not allow his bullies to own him. He does not allow hate or revenge to drive him. In the end, love endures. The love he learns from his father. The love that saves him so that he can save the world.
