ALLAN HUNTER at the Movies

IT IS THE season for serious-minded, heavyweight Oscar-winners. If you are searching for a lighter alternative then there is no better recommendation than ‘The World’s Fastest Indian’, a beguiling, old-fashioned heartwarmer inspired by true events from the 1960s.

It’s star attraction is a thoroughly charming performance from Anthony Hopkins that rates as one of the best in his long career. Sporting a solid Kiwi accent and a permanent twinkle in his eye, Hopkins plays veteran New Zealander Burt Munro.

A lovable eccentric in small town Invercargill, he reserves his true passion for an Indian Scout motorcycle. He believes the machine is special and dreams of heading to the Salt Flats of Utah where speed records are broken and reputations are made.

Eventually, he sets sail for America and the film develops into a warmhearted account of the people and adventures that Burt encounters along the way.

Inviting you to set aside your cynicism, this is a film that sees the best in everyone. Burt is such a decent, straightforward fellow that people can’t help but respond to him in kind.

The character and the film are completely disarming. It may be sentimental, but when Burt reaches Utah your are urging him to succeed. The film even captures the speed and daring required of Burt as his famous motorcycle wobbles into the desert hoping to defy all the odds.

Capturing all the joy and enthusiasm of the character, Anthony Hopkins is on captivating form in a modest production that gives a great deal of pleasure.

Director: Roger Donaldson
Stars: Anthony Hopkins, Diane Ladd, Aaron Murphy, Iain Rea, Chris Lawford, Bruce Greenwood
Screenplay: Roger Donaldson
Certificate: 12A
Running time: 127 mins
Country: New Zealand/Japan/Switzerland/USA
Year: 2005

© Allan Hunter, 2006