The Bikeriders
Outlaw motorcycle gangs have long intrigued audiences with their raw, rebellious energy, & Jeff Nichols’ film The Bikeriders captures this essence with a vivid, if occasionally bumpy, ride. Featuring stellar performances from Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, & Jodie Comer, this film offers a unique, albeit imperfect, glimpse into the world of Vandals MC.
A Tale of Love & Loyalty
The Bikeriders revolves around the fictional Vandals MC, charting their evolution from a small group of dirt bike racers into one of the largest motorcycle gangs in the United States. Drawing inspiration from Danny Lyon’s 1967 book, Nichols centres the narrative on Kathy (Jodie Comer), who recounts her experiences with the gang, particularly her tumultuous relationship with Benny (Austin Butler).
Through Kathy's eyes, the film unfolds as a love story—first between Kathy & Benny, then Benny & his bike, & ultimately Benny & the gang. This framing device adds an emotional layer to the story, emphasising the personal stakes amidst the chaotic world of the Vandals.
Stellar Performances at the Core
The performances in The Bikeriders are undeniably the heart of the film. Austin Butler delivers a compelling portrayal of Benny, capturing the character’s charisma & complexity. Tom Hardy’s portrayal of Johnny adds a gritty, unpredictable energy, while Jodie Comer anchors the film with a nuanced performance as Kathy.
These actors bring depth to their characters, making the audience feel the intensity of their bonds & conflicts. The film’s depiction of love, devotion, brotherhood, & violence is brought to life through their powerful performances, making these elements resonate strongly.
Grit & Violence on Display
The Bikeriders does not shy away from depicting the darker aspects of motorcycle gang life. The violence & toxic masculinity inherent in this world are portrayed unflinchingly, making it clear that this lifestyle is not for the faint-hearted. These scenes are brutal & raw, adding a sense of authenticity to the film’s portrayal of the gang's rough & tumble existence.
However, this focus on the grittier elements can be overwhelming at times, potentially alienating viewers who might find the relentless aggression hard to stomach.
Structural Hiccups in Storytelling
While the performances & gritty realism are strong points, The Bikeriders struggles with its narrative structure. The film’s choice to frame the story around Kathy’s interviews with photographer Danny Lyon (Mike Faist) leads to a somewhat disjointed & shallow narrative. This approach leaves significant aspects of the characters’ motivations & backstories underexplored.
This narrative choice makes the audience feel more like passive observers than active participants in the story. As a result, the film misses the opportunity to delve deeper into the complexities of characters like Benny & Johnny, which could have added much-needed depth to the story.
Nostalgic Appeal & Journalistic Parallels
Fans of Sons Of Anarchy will find The Bikeriders to be a nostalgic trip, evoking the freedom & thrill of riding with the wind in your hair. However, it falls short of delivering the intricate, compelling storytelling seen in the early seasons of that show.
Moreover, for those who appreciate the journalistic style of Hunter S. Thompson, the parallels in storytelling are unmistakable. The film’s immersive, almost gonzo-like approach to depicting the gang’s lifestyle makes it an intriguing watch, even if it doesn't fully capitalise on its potential.
As The Bikeriders rides into the sunset it leaves viewers with a mix of exhilaration & contemplation. The film’s vivid portrayal of motorcycle gang life, coupled with standout performances, ensures it remains memorable despite its narrative shortcomings.
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