movie review: THE WORLD'S FASTEST INDIAN

[Stephen M]

What it is: The tale of Burt Munro (played by Anthony Hopkins), a kiwi grandfather who took his modified Indian Scout motorcycle to the Bonneville Salt Flats for a shot at the record books.

Who should watch it:
People who want to see some great shots of machines at speed and the American Southwest.
People who want to see one of the world's greatest actors give one of his greatest performances.
People charmed by off-beat characters, not everymen, but with everyman appeal.

Who should give it a miss:
People annoyed by never-ending streams of one-dimensional supporting characters who have no chance to grow. This is a one-man show.
People who want 2 hours of Bonneville footage. Three quarters of the movie is about getting there.

In-depth Analysis: While the distance covered by the main character in this film is about as great as can be without donning a space suit, I hesitate to lump this gem in with other "road movies." The journey here is more personal than literal, as best exemplified by the scene where.....OOOH! SHINY THING!

[Boxer2500]

A fantastic film. I saw it in theaters when it first came out, and will probably add it to my DVD collection when I find it on a sale rack. Even my mom (who doesn't know the first thing about mechanized transportation) loved it.

[Stephen M]

One thing I liked is that there isn't really a cliche'd bad guy, per se. Just hiccups and other obstacles to be overcome with a mix of charm and perseverance. Even those that are pitted against him to some degree don't come across as evil; just as people doing their jobs and trying to find a way to do what's right.

[Tifosi]

It's about as far from Hannibal Lecter as anyone could ever get...



Dan