Skip to content

CRITERIAA Criterion Channel Companion

Home Search Collections Closet Lists

CRITERIA

A Criterion Channel Companion

© 2026 Criteria. Not affiliated with The Criterion Collection.

Hardcore (1979) | Criteria

Backdrop for Hardcore

Poster for Hardcore

Hardcore

English • 1979 • 1h 48m

This film is not currently available on the Criterion Channel

Director

Crime Drama Thriller

Synopsis

A conservative Midwest businessman ventures into the sordid underworld of pornography in search of his runaway teenage daughter who’s making hardcore films in the pits of Los Angeles.

Included in
Directed by Paul Schrader
Position 2
Included in
September 2023
Position 47
Included in
Additions: January 2020
Position 29
Included in
Meet the Filmmakers: Paul Schrader
Position 2

Credits

Crew

DirectorPaul Schrader

WriterPaul Schrader

CinematographerMichael Chapman

ComposerJack Nitzsche, Rob Miller, Jill Fraser

ProducerBuzz Feitshans

Cast

George C. Scottas Jake VanDorn

Peter Boyleas Andy Mast

as Niki

Dick Sargentas Wes DeJong

Leonard Gainesas Ramada

Dave Nicholsas Kurt

Gary Grahamas Tod

Larry Blockas Detective Burrows

Marc Alaimoas Ratan

Leslie Ackermanas Felice

Charlotte McGinnisas Beatrice

Ilah Davisas Kristen VanDorn

Paul Marinas Joe VanDorn

Will Walkeras Jism Jim

Hal Williamsas Big Dick Blaque

Bob Bishopas Stud #1

Tim Dialas Stud #2

Roy Londonas Jim Rucker

Bibi Beschas Mary

Tracey Walteras Male Teller