New Movies: Hardcore Never Dies (2023) by Jim Taihuttu: Beats, Brotherhood, and a Brutal Reality Check
- dailyentertainment95
- Jun 27
- 13 min read
The Core Story: From Piano Dreams to Gabber Nightmares
"Hardcore Never Dies" is a 2023 Dutch crime-drama directed by Jim Taihuttu, known for his visually distinctive films like "Wolf" and "De Oost." The film transports audiences back to the vibrant, yet volatile, Rotterdam gabber scene of the 1990s.
The story centers on Michael (Joes Brauers), a talented 17-year-old aspiring pianist who dreams of a future in classical music, but struggles to gain his parents' support. Just as he faces a crucial conservatory entrance exam, his estranged older brother, Danny (Jim Deddes), re-enters his life. Danny, a charismatic but troubled figure, introduces Michael to the pulsating world of gabber music – the loud, fast, and aggressive electronic music that defined Dutch hardcore culture – and the accompanying scene of brotherhood, wild parties, and rampant ecstasy use.
Michael quickly becomes drawn into this exhilarating subculture, finding an escape from his classical music frustrations and a sense of belonging with Danny and his crew. However, the allure of the gabber scene soon exposes Michael to its darker underbelly: Danny's increasingly dangerous drug dealing business, which rapidly escalates to international proportions. As the brothers become entangled in a high-stakes criminal enterprise, their safety is jeopardized, forcing them to fight for their lives and confront the brutal consequences of their choices within a world that initially promised only freedom and euphoria. The film explores themes of brotherhood, ambition, identity, and the destructive power of addiction and crime, all set against the iconic backdrop of 90s Dutch hardcore.
Short Summary: Rotterdam Rhythms, Brotherly Bonds, and Bad Deals
In 1990s Rotterdam, aspiring pianist Michael (Joes Brauers) is pulled into the electrifying gabber scene by his estranged brother, Danny (Jim Deddes). What begins as an escape into hard beats and camaraderie quickly descends into a dangerous criminal underworld as Danny's drug dealing escalates internationally, forcing the brothers to fight for survival and confront the grim realities behind the neon lights.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt29607491/
About movie: https://newams.com/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/hardcore-never-dies (US), https://www.justwatch.com/de/Film/hardcore-never-dies (Germany)
Detailed Look: Immersive Subculture and Crime Narrative
"Hardcore Never Dies" is a visually and audibly immersive experience that transports viewers directly into the heart of 1990s Dutch gabber culture. Director Jim Taihuttu, along with cinematographer Lennart Verstegen, pays meticulous attention to detail, from the iconic "Australian" tracksuits and Nike Air Max sneakers to the specific club environments like the Energiehal. The film's soundtrack, curated by Gino Taihuttu, is a central character itself, featuring authentic 90s hardcore tracks that perfectly capture the pulsating energy and often aggressive nature of the scene.
The film's strength lies in its evocative portrayal of the gabber subculture and the raw, uninhibited energy of its parties. Critics praise its ability to capture the "zeitgeist of the 1990s fantastically," making it a nostalgic trip for those familiar with the scene. Joes Brauers delivers a convincing performance as the naive Michael, whose journey from classical music student to a participant in the hardcore world is compelling. Jim Deddes as Danny is equally strong, portraying the charismatic but dangerous older brother. Their brotherly dynamic forms the emotional core, making their descent into crime all the more tragic.
However, many critics point out that while the setting is unique and well-executed, the narrative itself is a "thuddingly familiar" crime drama, a "basic" story of drug dealing gone wrong that could belong to almost any genre. Some feel that the film doesn't delve deeply enough into the gabber culture itself, instead using it as a vibrant backdrop for a relatively conventional plot about addiction, ambition, and crime. Reviews suggest that if a viewer has "no affinity with the Dutch gabber scene of the 90s there isn't much here" beyond a predictable story. Despite these criticisms, the strong performances, immersive atmosphere, and powerful soundtrack ensure that for fans of the era or those curious about the subculture, the film offers an engaging and often thrilling ride.
Plot Summary: Michael's Dangerous Descent
Classical Dreams: 17-year-old Michael dreams of becoming a concert pianist, but his parents are unsupportive, and he struggles with his conservatory entrance exams.
Danny's Re-entry: His older brother, Danny, who has been estranged, suddenly reappears, charismatic and seemingly successful, offering Michael a different path.
Introduction to Gabber: Danny introduces Michael to the Rotterdam gabber scene – a world of fast, hard electronic music, massive parties, and widespread ecstasy use. Michael is immediately drawn to the raw energy and sense of belonging.
Embracing the Lifestyle: Michael quickly integrates into Danny's world, finding friendship and an intoxicating escape from his academic pressures. He shaves his head, dons the distinctive gabber attire, and becomes fully immersed in the subculture.
The Dark Side of the Scene: As Michael spends more time with Danny, he discovers the source of his brother's apparent wealth: drug dealing. Initially, it seems contained, but Danny's ambition and recklessness push the operation to international levels.
Escalating Danger: The stakes rapidly increase as Danny's criminal ventures attract dangerous individuals and rival gangs. Michael finds himself increasingly entangled in the illicit activities, leading to violent confrontations and threats to their lives.
Brotherly Bond Tested: The bond between Michael and Danny is severely tested as their choices lead them down a perilous path. Michael must confront the true cost of his brother's lifestyle and his own involvement.
Consequences and Fight for Survival: The film culminates in a desperate struggle for survival as the brothers face the dire consequences of their drug empire, forcing them to fight for their lives against enemies they've made along the way.
Director's Vision: Jim Taihuttu's Immersive Trip Down Memory Lane
Jim Taihuttu's vision for "Hardcore Never Dies" was to create a visceral and authentic time capsule of the 1990s Dutch gabber scene, using it as a vibrant backdrop for a more universal story of brotherhood, ambition, and the perils of a criminal underworld.
Authentic Recreation of an Era: Taihuttu's primary goal was to meticulously recreate the look, feel, and sound of the 90s gabber subculture. This involved a razor-sharp eye for detail in costumes, settings, and music, aiming to fully immerse the audience in that specific moment in Dutch history.
Music as a Character: The hard beats of gabber music are integral to the film, not just as background, but as a driving force and an emotional outlet for the characters. Taihuttu envisioned the music as a central element in shaping Michael's journey and the overall atmosphere.
Brotherhood and Moral Descent: At its core, the film is a drama about two brothers. Taihuttu aimed to explore the complexities of their bond, how one sibling can influence another, and the gradual moral descent that can occur when ambition and illicit activities intertwine.
Juxtaposition of Worlds: The director wanted to highlight the stark contrast between Michael's aspirations in classical music and the raw, untamed energy of the gabber scene, demonstrating how one can be drawn from a structured, disciplined world into chaos.
Stylized Realism: While the setting is very specific and grounded in a real subculture, Taihuttu's films often employ a stylized visual approach. He likely aimed for a balance of gritty realism in the crime elements with a heightened, almost dreamlike quality in the rave scenes.
Themes:
Brotherhood and Loyalty: The central theme revolves around the complex and often strained relationship between Michael and Danny, exploring the limits of sibling loyalty.
Identity and Belonging: Michael's journey of self-discovery, finding a sense of belonging in a subculture that initially seems alien to his artistic ambitions.
Escapism and Self-Destruction: The allure of the gabber scene as an escape, and how it leads to self-destructive choices through drug use and criminal involvement.
Ambition and Its Perils: Danny's unchecked ambition in the drug trade and Michael's suppressed musical ambition, and the dangerous paths they can lead to.
The Dark Side of Subcultures: While celebrating the energy of gabber, the film also exposes the darker realities of drug culture and the criminal elements often associated with it.
Nostalgia vs. Reality: For audiences familiar with the 90s, the film plays on nostalgia but then grounds it in a harsh criminal reality, showing that not everything from the past is rosy.
Key Success Factors: Ingredients for Triumph
Unique Cultural Setting: The film's deep dive into the specific, iconic 1990s Dutch gabber scene offers a fresh and visually distinct backdrop for a crime drama.
Authentic Soundtrack: The use of real 90s hardcore tracks is a major draw for fans of the music and helps establish a powerful atmosphere.
Strong Visuals and Atmosphere: Jim Taihuttu's directorial style, known for its immersive quality, effectively transports the audience into the era.
Compelling Lead Performances: Joes Brauers and Jim Deddes provide strong, believable portrayals of the central brothers.
Exploration of a Niche Subculture: For a global audience, it offers a fascinating glimpse into a subculture that might be unfamiliar, adding intrigue.
Awards and Nominations: Emerging Recognition
"Hardcore Never Dies" was released in late 2023. As a Dutch production, its primary recognition would be within Dutch and European film awards. Specific detailed information on nominations or wins is less widely available globally compared to major Hollywood productions, but it has been noted for its presence at film festivals.
Noordelijk Film Festival (Netherlands): The film was featured at this festival, indicating its recognition within the Dutch film circuit.
Critical Buzz: While not a major awards contender globally, its reception in Dutch cinema circles and online reviews suggest a film that generated discussion and appreciation for its atmosphere and performances.
Critics Reception: Nostalgia, Style, and a Familiar Story
Critical reception for "Hardcore Never Dies" is mixed to positive, with praise largely directed at its visual style, authentic recreation of the 90s gabber scene, and strong performances, but often tempered by observations about its conventional narrative.
Positive Aspects highlighted by critics:
Immersive Atmosphere and Visuals: Reviewers widely commend Jim Taihuttu for his "razor-sharp eye for detail" in capturing the "zeitgeist of the 1990s fantasticallly." The film's aesthetic and portrayal of the gabber scene are frequently praised as "spot on" and "cinematically very good."
Authentic Soundtrack: The soundtrack is a major highlight, described as "great" and integral to the film's success, making it a powerful trip down memory lane for those familiar with the music.
Strong Performances: Joes Brauers and Jim Deddes receive praise for their portrayals of Michael and Danny, with their brotherly dynamic being a compelling element.
Engaging if Conventional: Many critics found the film "very fast and never boring," despite its predictable plot. It's often described as a "decent coming of age / drug deal gone wrong sort of movie."
Common Criticisms or Observations:
"Basic Crime Film" Within a Unique Setting: The most common critique is that the film, despite its unique backdrop, ultimately defaults to a "thuddingly familiar" or "basic" crime story. Some feel it "makes a turn to an interchangeable crime story that hardly knows how to captivate."
Underutilization of Culture: Several critics express disappointment that the film doesn't delve deeper into the gabber culture itself, instead using it primarily as a setting for the crime narrative. "It's a shame this isn't more about the culture itself," one review states.
Stereotyping: Some within the gabber community felt the film leaned too heavily into negative stereotypes associated with the scene, particularly concerning drug use.
Predictable Plot: The story arc, especially the drug dealing escalating into danger, is often described as predictable.
Overall Critics Reception Summary:
"Hardcore Never Dies" is recognized as a stylishly directed and atmospherically rich film that successfully captures the energetic and unique world of 1990s Dutch gabber. Its authentic soundtrack and strong lead performances are major highlights. However, its reception is somewhat divided by its reliance on a conventional crime-drama narrative, which some critics feel overshadows its potential to explore the subculture in more depth. For those with a connection to the era or an interest in visually immersive cinema, it offers an engaging experience, but it may not break new ground for the crime genre.
Box Office: A Local Hit
"Hardcore Never Dies" was released in the Netherlands on November 9, 2023.
Total Worldwide Gross: The film grossed approximately $1,456,297 worldwide.
Netherlands Gross: The vast majority of its earnings came from the Netherlands, where it grossed around $1,439,339.
Limited International Release: The film had a very limited international release beyond the Netherlands, accounting for its modest worldwide total.
Performance Context: For a Dutch film with a niche subject matter, a gross of over $1.4 million in its home market is generally considered a respectable performance, indicating it was a local hit. Information on its production budget is not widely available, but Dutch films typically operate on more modest budgets than Hollywood blockbusters, suggesting it likely performed well relative to its cost.
Production Summary: Dutch Authenticity
"Hardcore Never Dies" is a 2023 Dutch crime drama with a runtime of 108 minutes (1 hour 48 minutes).
Directed by: Jim Taihuttu
Written by: Jim Taihuttu, Amira Duynhouwer, Victor D. Ponten
Produced by: Thomas den Drijver, Sander Verdonk
Starring:
Joes Brauers as Michael
Jim Deddes as Danny
Rosa Stil as Priscilla
Jordy Dijkshoorn as Jeffrey
Huub Smit as Hubert
Juda Goslinga as Hendrik
Joenoes Polnaija as Minggus
Pit Bukowski
Bob Schwarze
Antoinette Akkerman
Cinematography: Lennart Verstegen
Edited by: Emiel Nuninga
Music by: Gino Taihuttu (original music), featuring numerous authentic 90s hardcore tracks by artists like Rotterdam Terror Corps, The Prophet, Neophyte, DJ Isaac, Bodylotion, and DJ Ruffneck.
Production Countries: The Netherlands
Language: Dutch
Original Title: Hardcore Never Dies
Release Date: November 9, 2023 (Netherlands)
Release Dates:
Netherlands Theatrical Release: November 9, 2023
International Availability: While primarily a Dutch release, it became available on platforms like Amazon Prime Video in some regions later in 2023 (e.g., December 8, 2023, for some territories).
Why to Recommend Movie:
For a Dive into 90s Dutch Gabber Culture: If you're fascinated by niche subcultures and want to experience the specific aesthetic, energy, and music of the 1990s Rotterdam hardcore scene.
If You Appreciate Stylish Filmmaking: Jim Taihuttu's distinct visual style and attention to detail create a highly immersive and atmospheric film.
For a Gritty Brotherly Drama: If you enjoy stories about complex sibling relationships and their descent into a dangerous criminal underworld.
If You Love Electronic Music Soundtracks: The film's authentic 90s hardcore soundtrack is a major character and a significant draw.
To See Strong Dutch Performances: Joes Brauers and Jim Deddes deliver compelling portrayals in the lead roles.
Why to Watch Movie: The Power of Presence
Feel the Beat: Immerse yourself in the relentless, pulsating energy of 90s gabber music, which drives much of the film's atmosphere and plot.
Experience a Unique Time and Place: Step into Rotterdam's vibrant underground, meticulously recreated with authentic details in clothing, clubs, and overall vibe.
Witness a Story of Dangerous Loyalty: Follow Michael's journey as he's pulled deeper into his brother's criminal world, exploring the limits of family bonds.
Enjoy a Visually Engaging Crime Drama: Despite a familiar plot, the film's strong direction and cinematography elevate the genre.
Discover a Different Side of Dutch Cinema: Explore a film that offers a distinct cultural flavor and a departure from mainstream Hollywood fare.
Movie Trend: Nostalgic Subculture Cinema
"Hardcore Never Dies" aligns with the growing trend of "Nostalgic Subculture Cinema," where filmmakers revisit specific youth movements or subcultures from recent decades (especially the 80s and 90s) to tell character-driven stories, often tinged with crime or coming-of-age themes. It's part of a broader fascination with "Period Piece Authenticity," where meticulous attention is paid to recreating the look, feel, and sound of a specific past era. Furthermore, it exemplifies the "Music-Driven Narrative" trend, where the film's soundtrack is not just background music but an integral part of its identity, mood, and even plot, shaping the characters' experiences and the audience's immersion.
Social Trend: The Allure of the Underground and the Price of Belonging
"Hardcore Never Dies" taps into the enduring social trend of seeking identity and belonging within subcultures, particularly for young people who feel disconnected from mainstream society or their family. It reflects the universal appeal of finding a "tribe" and the exhilarating freedom that comes with shared passions like music and lifestyle. However, the film also directly addresses the darker side of this trend: the vulnerability of these underground spaces to exploitation and criminal elements, and the dangerous allure of quick money and illicit substances. It speaks to the societal fascination with "hedonism" and its potential for self-destruction, exploring the fine line between exhilarating rebellion and dangerous escapism. The film's specific setting in the 90s gabber scene also resonates with a broader cultural nostalgia for distinct pre-digital eras, when subcultures flourished more organically and offered a tangible sense of community, even if those communities came with inherent risks.
Final Verdict: "Hardcore Never Dies": A Stylish Ride on a Familiar Beat
"Hardcore Never Dies" is a visually and audibly immersive journey into the heart of 1990s Rotterdam gabber culture, propelled by a pulsating soundtrack and stylish direction from Jim Taihuttu. It excels at recreating the raw energy and distinct aesthetic of the era, making it a compelling watch for anyone fascinated by subcultures. The performances by Joes Brauers and Jim Deddes anchor the narrative with a believable brotherly dynamic, capturing their descent into a dangerous criminal underworld. However, while the setting is fresh and vibrant, the underlying crime drama narrative proves to be quite conventional, following a familiar "drug deal gone wrong" arc that some critics found predictable. Despite this, the film's strong atmosphere, authentic music, and engaging lead performances make it a notable local hit and a worthwhile watch for those drawn to its unique cultural backdrop, even if it doesn't break new ground in storytelling.
Recommendations for Filmmakers: Crafting Culture-Rich Narratives
Dive Deep into Niche Subcultures for Unique Settings: "Hardcore Never Dies" proves the power of using a highly specific and visually distinct subculture as a backdrop. Filmmakers should explore untold stories within unique cultural movements, leveraging their inherent visual and auditory richness to create an immersive world for the audience, even if the core narrative is more universally recognizable.
Let Music Be a Character: Integrate your film's soundtrack as an active, driving force within the narrative, rather than just background noise. "Hardcore Never Dies" uses 90s hardcore tracks to define its mood, pace, and the emotional landscape of its characters. This shows how music can be integral to both the atmosphere and the character's journey.
Balance Style with Substance (or Lean into Style): While the film's plot is familiar, its strong visual style and immersive atmosphere elevate it significantly. Filmmakers can learn that a compelling aesthetic and a confident directorial hand can make even a conventional story feel fresh and engaging, especially when combined with authentic cultural details.
Focus on Strong Central Relationships: Even with a unique setting, grounding your story in compelling human relationships, like the brotherly bond in "Hardcore Never Dies," provides an emotional core that resonates universally. These relationships can carry the narrative even if the plot points feel familiar.
Recommendations for Movie Industry: Championing Authentic Voices and Local Hits
Invest in Films Rooted in Unique Cultural Moments: The success of "Hardcore Never Dies" in its local market demonstrates that films which authentically portray specific cultural phenomena can find a dedicated audience. The industry should continue to support projects that offer a genuine, immersive look into diverse subcultures, as these can provide unique cinematic experiences beyond mainstream narratives.
Recognize the Value of Strong Local Performance: A film doesn't need to be a global blockbuster to be a success. "Hardcore Never Dies"' impressive domestic gross for a Dutch film highlights the importance of supporting local industries and celebrating films that resonate deeply within their cultural context, recognizing their artistic and commercial value within their specific markets.
Leverage Music as a Marketing Hook: For films where music is a central element, the industry should fully utilize the soundtrack in marketing. The appeal of 90s hardcore for "Hardcore Never Dies" serves as a powerful draw, demonstrating how a curated, authentic musical backdrop can attract specific audience segments.
Embrace Genre Blending (with a Clear Lean): While "Hardcore Never Dies" is primarily a crime drama, its strong subcultural element gives it a distinct flavor. The industry should encourage films that blend genres creatively, allowing for unique combinations like a "subculture crime drama" that stands out from more conventional entries.
Final Conclusions: "Hardcore Never Dies": A Vibrant Beat That Echoes Beyond the Dance Floor
"Hardcore Never Dies" is a strikingly atmospheric and culturally rich film that excels in transporting its audience straight into the heart of the 1990s Dutch gabber scene. Jim Taihuttu's sharp direction, combined with a pulsating, authentic soundtrack, creates an immersive experience that's both exhilarating and melancholic. At its core, it's a poignant story of brotherhood and the alluring, yet dangerous, pull of an underground world, brought to life by strong, grounded performances. While the crime narrative might feel familiar at times, the film's unique setting and the meticulous recreation of a bygone era elevate it beyond a standard genre piece. "Hardcore Never Dies" serves as a powerful reminder that authentic storytelling, even within conventional plots, can shine brightest when rooted in a compelling cultural backdrop. It's a testament to the enduring power of subcultures and the difficult choices that often come with finding where you belong.
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