The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)

~ by Michelle Demaras ~

Considering this is now the second film about land speed records I’ve reviewed, you’d think I was packing up to go to Bonneville to set one myself! While this film isn’t quite as old as Jimmy Stewart’s “Speed” it’s got all the same charm.

Anthony Hopkins stars as an eccentric yet lovable old-timer from New Zealand named Burt Munro. He’s spent the past 45 years souping up his 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle, now a full-fledged speed demon. Munro lives out his dream, travelling to the USA on a pilgrimage to the Bonneville Salt Flats. The film unfolds much as one expects; Burt faces challenges, overcomes personal struggles and ends up setting his record. During interviews after release of the movie, Hopkins himself compared it to Rocky – the only real difference is that this Rocky is on wheels!

The feel-good story is so intriguing, and the high-stakes of his final attempt at the record is compelling. In reality, the character of Burt himself makes the film so appealing. It’s hard to pretend that he wasn’t at least a little off his rocker. Instead of mowing his lawn, he just sets it on fire. Even so, watching Burt go from the local hero in Invercargill, New Zealand to a fish out of water in Los Angeles is hilarious.

Burt buys a beat-up, baby-blue 1954 Chevy that looks like it won’t even make the trip from California to Utah. Along the journey we see Burt as a friendly, talkative guy who crosses paths with bizarre characters, some who see the old man as an easy mark. Burt doesn’t let it bother him. Even when reflecting on the risk of death, whether it’s from his heart problems or crashing and burning on his bike, he’s accepted the risks and refuses to sit quietly in the corner waiting for the end. His philosophy on life and death is examined in the movie, and while it seems bittersweet, only demonstrates how determined Burt was to take on challenges.

There’s a lessons to be learned from the life of Burt Munro, and it has nothing to do with racing or speed records. He’s stubbornly determined to chase after his dreams, no matter what anyone around him thinks. Make sure to check out this inspirational movie film sometime. Following along with Burt as he journeys to his ‘promised land’ will make you feel all giddy inside. And his drive to achieve his drams and goals will get you motivated!

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