Review of The World's Fastest Indian

Optimistic, un-cynical and totally charming

In the often toxic climate of current events, some old-school inspiration can feel pretty good. The Capra-esque elements come together just about perfectly in 2005's "The World's Fastest Indian," the life story of New Zealander Burt Munro, who, in 1967, -- at age 68 -- set a land-speed world record at Utah's Bonneville Salt Flats on his 1920 Indian motorcycle. It's got all the usual elements: the quirkly individualist overcoming long odds by virtue of his wits, charm and can-do spirit. The joy of it is in how well it all plays. Despite ample opportunity to lay on the cliches, writer/director Roger Donaldson rarely hits a false note. Anthony Hopkins' fine perfomance is the anchor, of course. His character is crusty but guileless -- the perfect embodiment of vibrant, um, maturity. There's a fine match, too, between Munro's Kiwi cantankerousness and the unfettered "don't fence me in" ethos of the early 60's American West -- where honest folks helped each other, just because. "The World's Fastest Indian" lifts your spirits with a light touch. It's a blast from the past in just about every sense.

Posted on 12/11/07 by: garagista1 12:16 AM