Jeff Nichols had a long-held dream of bringing the 1960s motorcycle club to life on the big screen. His fascination began when he first read Danny Lyon’s book “The Bikeriders” over two decades ago. The idea of rebels, romantics, and the end of an era captivated him, but he didn’t anticipate the challenges of filming motorcycles in motion.
The vintage bikes, high-speed riding by actors like Austin Butler and Tom Hardy, and the absence of helmets presented significant risks. Despite the danger, they proceeded with filming, embracing the thrill and intensity of the experience. The motorcycle expert imparted valuable wisdom to Butler, emphasizing the empowerment that comes with taking risks and being responsible for one’s safety.
“The Bikeriders” is a unique summer movie featuring a talented cast, including Jodie Comer, Michael Shannon, Norman Reedus, and Mike Faist. Nichols aimed to capture the nostalgia and melancholy of a disappearing subculture, steering clear of cliches and embracing the bittersweet reminiscence of a bygone era.
Casting has always been a strong suit for Nichols, with actors like Jessica Chastain and now Austin Butler making their mark in his films. Butler’s portrayal of Benny, an enigmatic character from Lyon’s book, added depth and emotion to the story. His interpretation of Benny’s character, initially reserved but ultimately free-spirited, brought a new dimension to the role.
One of Nichols’ breakthroughs was deciding to make Kathy, a real woman from the motorcycle club, the narrator of the story. Kathy’s perspective offered a fresh take on the male-dominated world of the Outlaws, providing insight and intimacy that a male narrator would have lacked. Comer’s portrayal of Kathy as a strong, authentic, and relatable character added layers to the narrative, highlighting the complexities of human relationships and emotions.
“The Bikeriders” blends fact and fiction, drawing inspiration from Lyon’s photographs and reporting while crafting a distinct cinematic experience. The decision to film in color, rather than black and white, aimed to capture the realism and authenticity of the era portrayed in the movie.
Despite challenges in getting the film to theaters, including delays due to the actors’ strike, “The Bikeriders” found a home with Focus Features for a worldwide summer release. The cast’s dedication to their roles, including learning to ride antique bikes and recreating iconic scenes, resulted in a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film.
The thrill of riding motorcycles, the danger involved, and the sense of camaraderie among the cast added an extra layer of authenticity to the movie. Capturing the essence of a bygone era while infusing it with modern sensibilities, “The Bikeriders” promises to be a thought-provoking and visually captivating cinematic experience for audiences.