Rent The Bikeriders (2023)

Biker gang Drama - Interesting - The Bikeriders review by GI

A drama that charts the lives of members of a 60s motorcycle 'club' called The Vandals who operate out of Chicago. The film is narrated by Kathy (Jodie Comer), who is a young girl from a normal background who inadvertently falls into the world of the biker gang when she falls for the moody member, Benny (Austin Butler). In that sense she's very like Lorraine Branco's character in Goodfellas (1990). They marry and the film is then basically a tussle narrative as she and the gang's boss, Johnny (Tom Hardy) vie for Benny's affections. So intertwined in this three way love triangle is a father/son relationship as Johnny sees Benny as his heir apparent. Is this a poignant ode to the freedom of the biker gang who strive for a life free of many of the restrictions of American society? Or is it a look at the immaturity of men who have little future and so portray a sort of puerile masculinity to get their kicks? Either way the narrative shows that this gang basically spend their time picnicking or sitting around in a bar occasionally fighting other biker gangs. The film shows a transition as a new wave of younger members step in with a more violent and criminal agenda which begins the downfall of Johnny and forces Kathy and Benny to make some serious life changes. There is violence on show here and yet it's all somewhat restrained and the overall impact of the gang is muted in the narrative other than through the occasional monologue (Michael Shannon bringing the best of those). This is a film that left me underwhelmed. Comer is the best thing here and she delivers her mid western accent with confidence. Butler's Benny is just sulky and occasionally unpredictable but his dilemma of choosing Kathy over the gang isn't effectively played out. Hardy is his usual taciturn heavy a little like his bootlegger in Lawless (2012). The smaller characters have much more impact especially Michael Shannon and Norman Reedus as the more deranged members. An interesting film but I still think TVs Sons Of Anarchy is the more interesting and involved biker gang narrative.

Vrrrrrm! - The Bikeriders review by griggs

The Bikeriders is a visually stunning film that serves as a testament to the craft of movie-making, making it a film reviewer’s delight. Director Jeff Nichols takes an interesting approach to storytelling, drawing inspiration from visual source material and weaving it into a narrative that is both engaging and visually captivating.

Jodie Comer stands out with her exceptional performance, showcasing her remarkable talent for accents and bringing depth to her character. Austin Butler delivers a solid performance, further proving his versatility as an actor. Tom Hardy, channelling his inner Marlon Brando, brings a raw intensity to his role that is both compelling and memorable.

The film looks superb on the big screen, with stunning cinematography that captures the gritty yet beautiful essence of biker culture. Every frame is meticulously crafted, creating a visual feast that enhances the overall experience.

However, despite these strengths, The Bikeriders somehow lacks something. The narrative, while interesting, occasionally feels disjointed, preventing it from achieving its full potential and leaving viewers wanting more substance beneath the stylish exterior.

While it may not fully achieve narrative depth, it remains a commendable effort that will be appreciated by those who love the art of filmmaking.