Review of The World's Fastest Indian (2005) by Steven Y — 28 Mar 2009

A true story with a nice mix of emotion and motorcycles. At a sneak preview of this movie in Burt Munro 's hometown - Invercargill, I noticed at the end that many of the men had moist eyes -not that the film is weepy or sycophantic in any way - it's simply inspirational.

The hero/underdog here is a social misfit, a self-confessed dirty old man but a lovable one. He loves the ladies and he loves speeding on his vintage Indian Scout "modified somewhat" along the open beach of Invercargill in Southern New Zealand. Until recently, beach bike racers contested the Burt Munro Trophy and Burt's 1967 record at Bonneville still stands. There is talk of restarting these races soon.

Anthony Hopkins manages to master the problematic Kiwi accent to deliver a touching, funny and realistic depiction of Burt in his quest to be the fastest thing on two wheels. Sir Anthony said that it's the best thing he's ever done and it's hard to disagree based on his laconic and lovable portrayal. Outstanding cameos by the likes of Annie Whittle and Diane Ladd simply add depth and verisimilitude to the film. Complete and convincing performances that warm the heart and show true humanity shining through. The cinematography is clear and precise, the action scenes are mercifully free of special effects.