A boy and his bike: the true story of an 'old guy'

By Nick Norman

In 1967, Burt Munro (Anthony Hopkins) set the land speed record on the salt flats of Utah. He did so riding a 40-year-old motorcycle devoid of brakes, professional tires or even a seat. To this day, he still holds the record.

And he did it at 68 years of age, at 178.97 mph.

Hence, the plot of "The World's Fastest Indian." It should be mentioned, however, that the "Indian" is the brand of motorcycle, not the brand of man.

Growing up with the New Zealand version of island fever, Munro dreamed of traveling to America to test his home-grown motorcycle on the open flats of Utah. It all began when he purchased a brand new Indian Scout motorcycle in 1920. Over the years, he nurtured the machine, making custom revisions and modifications.

As the film opens, Munro's completed motorcycle resembles a monstrosity of scrap metal rather than a consumer product. But don't be fooled: this thing will knock your socks off. And your mom's socks, too.

The drama truly begins when Munro lands in Los Angeles. Accustomed to sleepy New Zealand, the speed and brilliance of Los Angeles dazzles a child-like Munro. He stares out the taxi window at shiny cars and bright lights. He even fends off a rabid Sunset Boulevard prostitute, no easy task.

As he moves closer to his goal, the setbacks grow in intensity--but so do the friendships he fosters.

Unfortunately, the script stumbles on heavily cliched portions, but the turbulence is well worth the ride. Like a new lover, one quickly becomes enamored and readily dismisses foibles and imperfections.

Sir Anthony Hopkins delivers an outstanding performance as the slightly senile Munro. He doesn't hear well, and he rarely laughs, but he brings out the absolute best in the people he meets. Would-be criminals turn to putty in his trusting hands; police officers simply smile and shake their heads. Even a drag queen drops her act in order to prevent tricking the old man. Fortune after good fortune smooths his path to the ultimate goal: the time trials in Utah.

Along the way, he finds particular solace in lonely, single women his age. They philosophize together, troubleshoot, and, more often than not, wake up together.

Hopkins carries the film. His performance brings such validity to the screen that I questioned his off-screen health. Is he really this senile, or has he simply perfected playing an endearing old man? Watch for the subtleties of the performance: the gestures and pouts. He made me think of my grandpa so often that I called Gramps after leaving the theater.

On that note, this movie should be your first choice if you're looking for something to watch with the parents or grandparents. It will make anyone feel confident in humanity and reaffirm the desire to fulfill lifelong dreams.

Grade: B+

Contact Nick Norman at (408) 551-1918 or npnorman@scu.edu.