The Bikeriders is a motorcycle drama that has a tried and true formula, but thanks to its electric cast and the gritty filmmaking of writer/director Jeff Nichols, this is one movie that has a lot of interest beneath its chrome exterior.
The movie is inspired by Danny Lyon’s photo book. It depicts the inner workings of the Chicago chapter of the Vandals motorcycle gang, which starts out wanting to help those less fortunate but then deteriorates into a criminal organization.
Jodie Comer stars as Kathy Bauer, who is married to Benny (Austin Butler). She narrates how the two of them met when Benny was first in the Vandals gang and she’s also introduced to their leader Johnny (Tom Hardy).
A lot of The Bikeriders reminded me of Goodfellas, but instead of wise guys dressed up in suits, these ruffians resort to leather and jeans through and through. It also makes screen time for supporting characters such as Michael Shannon’s Zipco, Boyd Holbrook’s Cal and Norman Reedus’ Funny Sonny. These actors deliver effective, authentic work to explain who they are and how they became involved with the Vandals. Shannon’s Zipco, in particular, has some insights as to why he doesn’t like college kids.
The movie starts with these guys becoming thick as thieves, but then Johnny starts perpetrating acts of violence that make Kathy uncomfortable. She wants out of this life, so she forces Benny to choose between the two.
What we get in The Bikeriders is a mixture of Scorsese meets Sons of Anarchy. It doesn’t necessarily say anything profound about the world these bikers live in, but it does offer a solid understanding of their passions and loyalties. The movie is also intercut with obscurely funny moments that work.
Comer is the anchor here as a woman who witnesses these events. She sees and makes judgments about how and why she wants Benny and herself to break free. Butler commands the screen with the looks of a young Johnny Depp meets Val Kilmer, but he brings strong acting chops to this role, which could’ve been one-dimensional. Plus, the magnetic Tom Hardy shines once again in a brooding, intense role that solidifies his status as a terrific actor.
The Bikeriders might not inspire anyone to go out and purchase a Harley, but it is riveting and perceptive.
Grade: A-
(Rated R for language throughout, violence, some drug use and brief sexuality.)
