In the ever-shifting world of Netflix trends, it is not uncommon for an older title to climb the charts unexpectedly. Few, however, could have predicted that “Get Hard,” the eccentric 2015 comedy starring Will Ferrell and Kevin Hart, would surge to the number two spot on Netflix USA, according to data from FlixPatrol.
This surprising resurgence highlights how streaming audiences continue to find new interest in decade-old films. Whether driven by curiosity, nostalgia, or viral buzz, “Get Hard” is suddenly one of the most-watched movies in the country again.
From Box Office Shrug to Streaming Hit: The Revival of ‘Get Hard’
At its core, “Get Hard” is a fish-out-of-water comedy with a high-concept twist. Will Ferrell plays James King, a wealthy, clueless hedge fund manager who is sentenced to prison for fraud. Terrified of life behind bars, he turns to Darnell Lewis, a car wash owner played by Kevin Hart, under the false assumption that Darnell has spent time in prison.
The setup paves the way for a chaotic crash course in “survival,” blending slapstick with culture-clash comedy and rapid-fire banter between the mismatched leads.
Source: IMDb
The film was directed by Etan Cohen, best known for his work as a writer on projects like “Tropic Thunder” and “Idiocracy.” Though “Get Hard” was Cohen’s directorial debut, it showcased his ability to create absurd scenarios that push boundaries, particularly through Ferrell’s signature awkward bravado and Hart’s rapid comedic timing. The supporting cast includes Craig T. Nelson and Alison Brie, both adding sharp contrast to the film’s exaggerated tone and energy.
While it opened to mixed reviews in 2015, critics often pointed to the chemistry between Ferrell and Hart as the film’s saving grace. The humor was broad and often polarizing, but the picture carved out a following with viewers who appreciated its over-the-top approach. A decade later, that dynamic duo seems to be striking a chord with a new generation of Netflix viewers—or perhaps simply reminding longtime fans of why Ferrell and Hart dominated the comedy scene in the 2010s.
