The Bikeriders-Movie Review

Review by Rob Hinkal

Mike Nichols returns to the director’s chair after nearly five years with The Bikeriders. Starring Jodie Comer, Austin Butler, and Tom Hardy, the film centers on the growth and eventual deterioration of a Midwestern motorcycle club between 1965 and 1973, as told through a series of interviews serving as narration. 

Known for his signature style of homebrewed, down-and-dirty filmmaking often taking place in the American South (previous entries in his filmography include Take Shelter, Mud, and Midnight Special), Nichols creates a compelling and intimate story wrestling with questions of masculinity, what it means to belong, and the strength of the bonds between brothers. 

It cannot be denied that The Bikerides does have a slow start, but it is not a bad one. In fact, one of the most emotionally stirring scenes in the movie occurs early on when we experience Kathy’s first motorcycle ride with Benny (Austin Butler). Much like another automobile-focused film this year, Furiosa, Bikeriders takes its time. It sets the pieces on the board in what can feel like a lackadaisical manner throughout its first half. However, once things pick up, you are in for one hell of a joyride.  

The overall production of the film is beautiful to behold. The bikes, costumes, cinematography, and musical choices all jump off the screen, immersing the viewer in this era and creating an environment that is both welcoming and increasingly volatile as the story progresses. The cast also knock it out of the park with Jodie Comer arguably delivering the best performance in the film. After viewing the trailers and marketing materials, it may come as a surprise to find that she is the main protagonist of the film as opposed to costar Austin Butler, who delivers a suave, brooding performance as he continues to be one of the most in-demand actors in Hollywood. Tom Hardy exhibits a powerful personality through physicality and, one of my main gripes with the film, his vocal performance. It can feel hard to focus on his character when his voice is so distinct and foreign from those he is surrounded by. But Tom Hardy is Tom Hardy, and when he needs to deliver, he delivers with flying colors. 

Sadly, while Austin Butler does deliver a commendable performance as Benny, it doesn’t feel like there is a clear way for the audience to connect with the character. Butler commits to the part and gives it his all, but throughout much of the film, he doesn’t feel like much of a character besides what we can see on screen. His internal dialogues and backstory feel mysterious, creating a sense of detachment. But again, once the film kicks into gear in its later chapters, you are invested in not only Benny, but the rest of the cast as you watch the motorcycle culture of the 60s slowly evolve and leave each one of them behind in the process. 

Jeff Nichols’ latest film demands patience from the viewer but richly rewards it with a compelling and beautifully crafted period piece, filled with remarkable scenes and universal themes once it finds its feet. It is easily one of my favorite films of the year and is a welcome addition to an impressive filmography.