Motorcycle Films to check out…
Motorcycles have always been more than just a mode of transportation. They represent freedom, rebellion, and adventure, which makes them a perfect fit for the world of cinema. This blog post takes you on a thrilling ride through the history of films featuring motorcycles, starting with the earliest classics and progressing through the years.
For each film, we’ll explore the plot synopsis, cast, director, and any Oscar nominations or wins, allowing you to get a closer look at these cinematic tales of two-wheeled excitement. So, fasten your seatbelts – or in this case, your helmets – and let’s dive into the world of cinematic motorcycle magic.
- The Wild One (1953)
Directed by Laslo Benedek, “The Wild One” is considered the quintessential biker film that set the stage for many more to come. This classic film starred Marlon Brando as Johnny Strabler, the leader of a motorcycle gang, and revolves around the tumultuous relationships between different groups. While “The Wild One” didn’t receive any Oscar nominations or wins, it remains a cornerstone in the motorcycle film genre and a pivotal moment in cinematic history.
Plot Synopsis: This biker film explores the conflict between Johnny’s gang and a small California town, showcasing the clash between rebellion and conformity.
- Easy Rider (1969)
Dennis Hopper’s directorial debut, “Easy Rider,” is a cult classic that epitomizes the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Hopper and Peter Fonda starred in the film as two bikers, Wyatt and Billy, who embark on a cross-country motorcycle journey to discover the real America. “Easy Rider” received two Oscar nominations, including Best Original Screenplay (written by Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Terry Southern).
Plot Synopsis: The film takes us on a road trip filled with self-discovery, challenging societal norms, and the search for freedom amidst the backdrop of 1960s America.
- Mad Max (1979)
George Miller’s post-apocalyptic action-thriller, “Mad Max,” introduced audiences to a dystopian world where lawlessness and chaos reign. Mel Gibson played the titular character, Max Rockatansky, a former police officer turned vengeful road warrior. Although “Mad Max” didn’t receive any Oscar nominations, it became a massive success and spawned a successful franchise.
Plot Synopsis: In a bleak future, Max seeks revenge on a motorcycle gang who terrorizes the desolate Australian wasteland.
- The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
Directed by Walter Salles, “The Motorcycle Diaries” is a biographical drama based on the memoirs of Ernesto “Che” Guevara. The film stars Gael García Bernal as Che and Rodrigo de la Serna as Alberto Granado. It tells the story of their motorcycle journey through South America, which played a significant role in Che Guevara’s transformation. The film received two Oscar nominations, including Best Adapted Screenplay.
Plot Synopsis: Two friends embark on a life-changing motorcycle journey across South America, witnessing poverty and injustice, which ultimately leads Che Guevara to become a revolutionary figure.
- Wild Hogs (2007)
Directed by Walt Becker, “Wild Hogs” is a comedy that takes a lighthearted approach to motorcycle culture. The film stars Tim Allen, John Travolta, Martin Lawrence, and William H. Macy as a group of middle-aged friends who decide to hit the open road on their motorcycles. While “Wild Hogs” didn’t receive any Oscar nominations, it offers a fun and humorous take on the motorcycle subculture.
Plot Synopsis: Four suburban friends embark on a motorcycle road trip to escape their mundane lives, only to find themselves in humorous and challenging situations when they encounter a real biker gang.
- Hell Ride (2008)
Directed and written by Larry Bishop, “Hell Ride” is a grindhouse-style biker film that pays homage to the genre’s roots. The film stars Larry Bishop, Michael Madsen, and Eric Balfour, among others. “Hell Ride” takes its inspiration from the classic motorcycle films of the 1960s and ’70s and is a thrilling ride filled with action and intrigue. The film didn’t receive any Oscar nominations but is a must-watch for fans of motorcycle cinema.
Plot Synopsis: A gang of bikers seeks revenge against a rival gang for the murder of a fellow rider, leading to a high-octane journey into the dangerous world of motorcycle clubs.
- The Place Beyond the Pines (2012)
Directed by Derek Cianfrance, “The Place Beyond the Pines” is a crime drama that features motorcycles as a central theme. The film stars Ryan Gosling as Luke, a motorcycle stunt rider, and Bradley Cooper as Avery, a police officer. While not specifically a motorcycle movie, the film’s motorcycle stunts and chases play a crucial role in the storyline. “The Place Beyond the Pines” did not receive any Oscar nominations.
Plot Synopsis: The film explores the intertwining lives of two men on opposite sides of the law, whose fates collide due to Luke’s motorcycle skills.
- John Wick (2014)
Directed by Chad Stahelski, “John Wick” stars Keanu Reeves as the titular character, an ex-hitman who seeks vengeance against those who wronged him. While the film is primarily known for its intense action sequences and gunfights, motorcycles play a significant part in the film’s thrilling chases. “John Wick” did not receive any Oscar nominations, but it quickly gained a reputation as a modern action classic.
Plot Synopsis: After a group of criminals steals John Wick’s beloved car and kills his dog, he goes on a relentless, motorcycle-aided quest for revenge.
- Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, this Marvel superhero film features a memorable motorcycle chase scene. Chris Evans reprises his role as Captain America, and Scarlett Johansson stars as Black Widow. While the film itself received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, it did not receive any Oscar nominations.
Plot Synopsis: Captain America and Black Widow embark on a motorcycle chase to escape their enemies, leading to intense action and daring stunts.
- Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
The Mad Max franchise made a triumphant return in 2015 with “Mad Max: Fury Road,” directed once again by George Miller. The film starred Tom Hardy as Max and Charlize Theron as Furiosa, and it was praised for its stunning practical effects and intense action sequences. “Mad Max: Fury Road” received ten Oscar nominations and won six awards, including Best Film Editing, Best Production Design, and Best Costume Design.
Plot Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, Max and Furiosa team up to escape a tyrannical warlord, leading to a series of epic motorcycle battles and chases.
- Venom (2018)
Directed by Ruben Fleischer, “Venom” is a superhero film that features a thrilling motorcycle chase scene. Tom Hardy stars as Eddie Brock, who becomes the host for the alien symbiote Venom. While “Venom” did not receive any Oscar nominations, it was a commercial success and spawned a sequel.
Plot Synopsis: Eddie Brock, as Venom, engages in a high-octane motorcycle chase as he tries to evade his pursuers and protect the symbiote within him.
- The Irishman (2019)
Martin Scorsese’s epic crime drama, “The Irishman,” features a memorable scene involving motorcycles. The film stars Robert De Niro as Frank Sheeran, Al Pacino as Jimmy Hoffa, and Joe Pesci as Russell Bufalino. “The Irishman” received ten Oscar nominations, including Best Director and Best Supporting Actor (for Joe Pesci and Al Pacino), but did not win any.
Plot Synopsis: In a sprawling narrative, the film includes a motorcycle assassination attempt, adding another layer of tension to the complex world of organized crime.
Conclusion
Motorcycles have played a prominent role in cinema, contributing to some of the most iconic and thrilling moments in film history. From the rebellious spirit of “The Wild One” to the high-octane action of “Mad Max: Fury Road,” the humorous escapades of “Wild Hogs,” and the grindhouse-style excitement of “Hell Ride,” these movies have left a lasting impact on audiences and filmmakers alike.
While not all of the films on this list received Oscar recognition, they have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. The combination of motorcycles and film offers a unique blend of excitement, danger, and freedom that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
As technology advances and storytelling evolves, we can only imagine what new motorcycle adventures await us on the silver screen in the future. So, whether you’re a motorcycle enthusiast or simply a fan of action-packed cinema, these films should be on your watchlist.