The World’s Fastest Indian is all sugar and no aftertaste. Director Roger Donaldson puts on the kid gloves to bring us this septic but nonetheless endearing take on the twilight years of motorcycle legend Burt Munro.
Based on factual events, World’s Fastest Indian is the story of kiwi Munro, and his attempts to set land speed records with his modified Indian brand motorcycle during the late 1960’s. Despite being over 70 years old and riding a motorcycle deemed an antique death trap, Munro makes his first trip to the Bonneville Speedway in Utah to realize those dreams.
The film is an obviously loving portrait of a man that Donaldson, a motorcycle enthusiast himself, knew firsthand and idolized. As can be expected under those circumstances, the film has a very warm and perhaps overly kind treatment of Munro. One gets the impression that Munro was loved by all no matter how eccentric his behavior seemed in old age. At every step in 70 year old Burt’s journey from New Zealand to Utah, the film plays like one successive vignette after another – there always seems to be someone who’s just, gosh darnit, happy to lend a hand or sleep with the guy. Talk about luck!
Above all else, World’s Fastest Indian is about living life. Oh, and also about discovering your potential, taking chances, and overcoming adversity. In other words, there’s a little something for everyone. This is a film whose power lies in it’s inspirational message and universal themes.
The DVD includes a half hour 1971 documentary on Munro by Donaldson called, ‘Offerings to the God of Speed’ in which Munro himself offers his views on life and racing as well as various interviews with assorted hangers-on. There is also illuminating feature commentary from Donaldson who uses the occasion to discuss everything from personal anecdotes to technical issues. There’s also a ‘Making Of…’ featurette which mostly consists of the rather large cast singing each others praises and sharing on set experiences. Throw in four deleted scenes that, not surprisingly, got their just desserts and an unintentionally humorous government promo spot for South Island, New Zealand.
The World’s Fastest Indian works because of it’s consistently good natured optimism. So put the pessimism aside and let Burt show you the tank is half full.
