The Bikeriders (Review)
It appears that in 2024, there is a resurgence of films reminiscent of the Golden Age of cinema. The recent release of HIT MAN on Netflix on June 7, along with the upcoming film The Bikeriders, demonstrates the exciting trajectory of contemporary cinema. Let's explore this further.
"The Bikeriders" is set in the 1960s and follows the evolution of a Midwestern motorcycle club over a decade. Initially a gathering place for local outcasts, the club transforms into a threatening gang that jeopardizes the original members' way of life. The film stars Tom Hardy, Austin Butler, and Jodie Comer, all of whom deliver remarkable performances. Comer's portrayal stands out, as she plays the narrator guiding viewers through the story, exploring the culture established by Johnny (Tom Hardy) for his motorcycle group, Vandals MC. She shares her first encounter with the group and her immediate attraction to Benny (Austin Butler). Although initially fearful, Benny's approach eventually brings her a sense of security.
Jeff Nichols both wrote and directed this film, which is based on a book by Danny Lyon. The smooth adaptation from the script to the screen effectively portrays themes that evoke classic gangster movies, a detail that caught my attention and was highly valued by me. The central themes revolve around brotherhood and loyalty, emphasizing the idea that any attack on one gang member is an attack on the entire group. This film is a perfect illustration of the past era, and coming from Chicago, I can relate to the resilience displayed by each character.
This film exemplifies the modern approach to filmmaking. It remains faithful to the storyline without deviating and maintains a smooth flow with a runtime of less than two hours. While many contemporary movies believe they must exceed two hours to be successful, the key is to keep the storytelling concise when possible. The scenes in this movie are engaging, avoiding unnecessary length or dullness, and keeping the audience intrigued about the upcoming dialogues.
Ultimately, The Bikeriders accomplishes what is necessary without shying away from what it's trying to say. It is an exceptional representation of a specific time period, highlighting themes that will appeal to fans of classic gangster films. Describing the movie as a contemporary version of Goodfellas is quite fitting. Hardy, Butler, and Comer all give strong performances. If you get the opportunity, be sure to watch this film.
RATING:
4/5
