Photo by The Bikeriders: A Movie About Nothing, But One Hell of a Ride
The 1960s were a transformative time in American history, and for The Vandals, a small boy’s club that devolved into a life of betrayal and murder. Director Jeff Nichols’ latest film, The Bikeriders, takes us on a wild ride through the underbelly of Chicago’s streets during this tumultuous decade.
The gritty streets of Chicago in the 1960s
Inspired by Danny Lyon’s photography book of the same name, Nichols weaves truth with fiction to bring the black-and-white riders back to life. The film features an all-star cast, including Austin Butler and Tom Hardy, who bring these characters from photographs and interviews to life.
Hardy’s character, Johnny, idolizes Marlon Brando in The Wild Ones, so he decides to start a biker club of his own, even talking like Brando while he’s at it. Jodie Comer’s character, Kathy, has a crazy, nearly piercing Midwestern accent, which adds a touch of humor to the film.
Butler’s character, Benny, is an enigma, never showing his face in any of Lyon’s photographs. His introduction in the film is filled with intrigue, leaving the audience wondering, “Who is that?” The tension for what Benny has to offer is high, but the direction Nichols chooses for this character leaves the film feeling slightly unsatisfied.
The cinematography is electric, with the streets of Chicago coming alive on screen. The bikes roar in your ears as they cross the screen, making you feel like you’re right there with the characters. However, the film’s focus on a love triangle between Johnny, Benny, and Kathy is what sets it apart from other films.
The complex relationship between Johnny and Benny
Hardy does a phenomenal acting job, bringing a sense of heaviness and longing to his scenes with Butler. The film’s exploration of the fight for affection is a stunning and intriguing aspect of the entire film.
If you enjoy a slow-burning, character-driven film with a focus on atmosphere and mood, The Bikeriders is the film for you. With its electric cinematography and phenomenal acting, it’s a must-see for fans of Jeff Nichols and the cast.
The Bikeriders: a film about the underbelly of Chicago’s streets
