Review:The World’s Fastest Indian

Ticket to ride

The World's Fastest Indian
***1/2**
Dir: Roger Donaldson
Cast: Anthony Hopkins and Chris Williams
Tushar Joshi
tushar.joshi@mid-day.com

Plot: First things first: the movie has nothing to do with India, nor does it refer to PT Usha or any one else claiming that title. Roger Donaldson's film is, in fact, about Burt Munro, the Kiwi who set an all time record for fastest land speed of a motorbike in Utah at the age of 68. Beginning with his early days in New Zealand, where he stays alone in a shack next to anot-so-friendly family, the film traces his days to the preparation for coveting the title of racing the fastest bike on road. Set in the 1970s and based on a true story, the film is about perseverance and Munro's easy-going attitude that helps him take his bike (named Indian) all the way across the world from Kiwi land to USA for the championship.
Acting: What do you say about Anthony Hopkins? The man is a genius. After having already proved himself in numerous art house classics (Howard's End) and commercial blockbusters (The Silence of the lambs and Hannibal), Hopkins seems more than just delighted to play Burt Munro. Since I haven't read or watched the real Munro, you can't tell if Hopkins adopted his mannerisms, but he certainly seems to have got under the skin of the character. Completelyopposite and in contrast to his most memorable and popular character of Dr Hannibal Lecter, Hopkins essays an instantly likeable and happy go lucky old man in this film. He seems completely at ease through out the film, to the point of making you forget he ever played some one who could fry a brain and eat it off the platter. There are numerous supporting actors in the film who support Hopkin's endeavour in making his journey through the film less bumpy.
What's hot: It is the story of an underdog, so you will be rooting for Munro through out the film. Very similar to Nagesh Kukunoor's Iqbal, the film throws up challenges and makes the road bumpy for Munro, as he sets about making his dream of setting a world record a reality. Most of the film is about Munro's meetings with strangers, his philosophy or take on incidents and events that he sees as 'opportunities rather than hurdles'. Even though the pace of the film isn't exactly racy, it keeps you gripped with its strong and interesting characters.
What's not: Yes, there are moments when you might feel diabetic watching the film. It's too sugary, and Munro is too good to be true. But his feat, and the way he achieved it, are events that happened and not just pages out of a fiction book. The climax, being the high point, arrives a bit late in the film, making you wonder if it was dragged for the sake of convenience.
Bottom line: Definitely recommended for those who want to watch a feel good film that elevates, inspires and motivates you. Don't be surprised if you end up wishing you had a grandpa like Munro and a bike like the Indian.