Tom Hardy’s first film, “Black Hawk Down,” has found a new streaming home in the UK, where it is now available on Prime Video. Released in 2001 and directed by Ridley Scott, this acclaimed war film focuses on the harrowing Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia, where two Black Hawk helicopters are shot down while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid, leaving soldiers to navigate a deadly environment.
This role marked Hardy’s debut as a credited actor and showcased a notable ensemble cast that includes Josh Hartnett from “Oppenheimer,” Ewan McGregor from “Star Wars,” Eric Bana from “Dirty John,” Tom Sizemore from “Saving Private Ryan,” William Fichtner from “Mom,” and Sam Shepard from “Mud.”
“Black Hawk Down” has been well-received, boasting a 77% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. TIME magazine praised the film for its powerful portrayal of the realities of war, describing it as “unforgettable,” while the Los Angeles Times called it “a triumph of pure filmmaking” that captures the relentless nature of conflict convincingly. Empire magazine recognized its ambition and stylistic approach, noting that it challenges traditional war movie conventions. Furthermore, the Midwest Film Journal highlighted its profound impact in conveying the horrors of war, asserting that few films have depicted such realities as effectively.
In related news, Hardy’s 2017 series “Taboo,” which he co-created with his father Chips and Steven Knight, has returned to BBC iPlayer after being temporarily taken down. The series follows a presumed-dead adventurer who comes back from Africa to claim his family’s shipping business.
“Black Hawk Down” is currently streaming on Prime Video, offering both new viewers and longtime fans a chance to experience this significant cinematic piece.