Starting this summer, The Amarillo Pioneer will be bringing you reviews of some of the latest films to hit the big screen in the Panhandle. First up, “The Bikeriders,” starring Tom Hardy, Austin Butler, and Jodie Comer.
“The Bikeriders” is the latest film from writer-director Jeff Nichols, centering on the fictional Vandals motorcycle gang from Chicago. The film, starring Austin Butler (“Elvis”) and Tom Hardy (“Mad Max: Fury Road”), is inspired by the photo-book of the same name by photojournalist Danny Lyon.
In the film, viewers are taken on a journey through the lifespan of the fictional Vandals club and its members. All the way, the film is narrated by Jodie Comer’s (“Free Guy”) Kathy, who is being interviewed by a fictional version of Lyon played by Mike Faist.
The film centers on two relationships: that of Benny (Butler) and his wife, Kathy (Comer), and Benny’s relationship with Johnny (Hardy). Johnny is the founder and leader of the Vandals club and Benny is essentially Johnny’s right-hand man and protege throughout the film. The friction in Benny and Kathy’s marriage caused by Benny’s dedication to the club and his allegiance to Johnny are central aspects to the film’s dramatic narrative.
Before viewers head into theaters, they should be aware that the film isn’t exactly like how the trailer portrays. Many viewers might walk into the theater believing they are about to witness an action flick about a ‘60s biker gang. And while the motorcycle club is central to the film’s entire premise, the Vandals as depicted in the film are more of a club than a gang. It’s essentially an outlet for men who love to ride their motorcycles to get together, drink, and socialize. Yes, occasional bursts of action do occur, but they are spread out among long stretches of conversation between characters — often structured around Kathy’s narration.
Additionally, the fact that the film is based on a photo book is worth remembering when heading into this film. At the end of “The Bikeriders,” several photos from the book are shown on screen and it is clear that the production team on the film went to great lengths to recapture some of these scenes on film. However, the film often feels like it is trying to give story to the original photos, leading to a plot that is seemingly disjointed and non-existent in some places.
While this review may sound like several knocks against “The Bikeriders," it is worth noting that Butler, Hardy, and Comer all turn in solid performances in the film — each sporting unique accents appropriate for the Chicago-set background. Although, Butler still does sound a bit like the King of Rock and Roll after his Oscar-nominated performance in “Elvis.”
The film is worth watching for the performances, but the lack of heavy action may be both a surprise and a turn off for some viewers. Still, if you’re interested in a talk-heavy drama flick about a motorcycle club as it morphs in the 1960s, “The Bikeriders” might be right for you.
“The Bikeriders” is now playing in theaters. According to the MPAA, the film is rated R due to language, violence, drug use, and brief sexuality.