"The World's Fastest Indian" is an incredible underdog story about following your dreams

Rating: 8/10 (22 February 2006)

"The World's Fastest Indian" is based on the true life story of Burt Munro (Anthony Hopkins) a man who is in love with speed. Set in New Zealand during the 1960's this movie follows Burt as he builds and repairs his old 1920's Indian Motorcycle. One day Burt faints and is rushed to the hospital where he is put on pills and is told that he is dying. Burt then follows his dream by going half way across the world to Salt Lake City, Utah to compete in the Bonneville motorcycle competition where he wants to race his Indian motorcycle and break the national land speed record. A real life underdog story ensues
What a great movie! Is what I said to myself as I walked about of the theater tonight after watching "The World's Fastest Indian." This movie is not only about a true underdog but also rather inspiring. This movie reminds people to follow your dreams and always believe in yourself even when majority of people think your going to fail. This movie which is based on true events is a remarkable film about a man who just never stopped no matter what obstacles got in his way. This is a powerful film that we see too few of in my opinion.
Anthony Hopkins is just terrific as the good spirited Burt Munro. Anthony Hopkins should have gotten an Oscar Nomination for his performance here. I really think the academy overlooked this film because it was definitely worthy of some attention just for Hopkins performance alone. The whole supporting cast was also great. There are to many smaller roles to name but all did a fine job with the part they were given to play. Great acting jobs all around.
This film is director and writer Roger Donaldson's best work to date. He has been doing films for some time now and has directed films like "Dante's Peak" and "The Recruit" but none have the greatness that this film delivers. The character development and production values are excellent and Donaldson does a great job capturing Burt's happiness and struggles. I think this movie could really make Donaldson a well known director in Hollywood.
In conclusion, if you want a movie that is smart and interesting see this film. If you want to see some great performances along with a great screenplay see this film. This movie is truly a great depiction of an ordinary man who does extraordinary things in order to follow his dreams and live life to the fullest. The movie is definitely a feel good movie that will make its audience think and ask question "When will I follow my dream?" The performance by Anthony Hopkins is worth the price of admission alone but then when you add on the great screenplay and good supporting roles well you got a film that I feel we see to few of. I highly recommend this movie to those who like well made movies that have substance.
MovieManMenzel's final rating for "The World's Fastest Indian" is a 8/10