'The fastest Indian in the world' is actually a motorcycle, type “Indian Scout”. It is driven by cranky motorcycle hobbyist Burt Munro (Anthony Hopkins), who wants to take part in the annual high-speed race on the salt lakes in Utah towards the end of his life.
Despite a recent heart attack, the New Zealander sets off for the USA in the early 1960s to realize his lifelong dream. Anthony Hopkins shines in this exciting sports biopic based on a true story. This affectionate homage portrays a humorous outsider who was also in the fast lane when it came to wisdom.
“Anthony Hopkins lends unexpected depth to the character of the thick-headed gnome, because behind the quirkiness there is a steadfastness and a firm belief that is unfortunately somewhat out of fashion these days. “I really wanted to play Munro because his story is an experience of almost spiritual quality. His conviction, his tenacity, his courage to take on the fastest race track in the world with the best drivers, that fascinated me deeply,” Anthony Hopkins said when asked what drew him to the role.
And in this respect, the path from Hannibal Lecter to Burt Munro is not very far: here the deadly psychopath, there the murderously fast conviction offender. Two men who are completely convinced of themselves and live in their own world. And Burt Munro does not shy away from violence - violence against himself - either; before attempting a record with the Indian, he swallows a nitroclycerine tablet to treat his heart problems. One look at the camera and the viewer knows: either he gets through it or he dies, but Munro will not give up. Who better to convey such a look than Anthony Hopkins?” (Vorfelder, on: zeit.de)
'The fastest Indian in the world' is actually a motorcycle, type “Indian Scout”. It is driven by cranky motorcycle hobbyist Burt Munro (Anthony Hopkins), who wants to take part in the annual high-speed race on the salt lakes in Utah towards the end of his life.
Despite a recent heart attack, the New Zealander sets off for the USA in the early 1960s to realize his lifelong dream. Anthony Hopkins shines in this exciting sports biopic based on a true story. This affectionate homage portrays a humorous outsider who was also in the fast lane when it came to wisdom.
“Anthony Hopkins lends unexpected depth to the character of the thick-headed gnome, because behind the quirkiness there is a steadfastness and a firm belief that is unfortunately somewhat out of fashion these days. “I really wanted to play Munro because his story is an experience of almost spiritual quality. His conviction, his tenacity, his courage to take on the fastest race track in the world with the best drivers, that fascinated me deeply,” Anthony Hopkins said when asked what drew him to the role.
And in this respect, the path from Hannibal Lecter to Burt Munro is not very far: here the deadly psychopath, there the murderously fast conviction offender. Two men who are completely convinced of themselves and live in their own world. And Burt Munro does not shy away from violence - violence against himself - either; before attempting a record with the Indian, he swallows a nitroclycerine tablet to treat his heart problems. One look at the camera and the viewer knows: either he gets through it or he dies, but Munro will not give up. Who better to convey such a look than Anthony Hopkins?” (Vorfelder, on: zeit.de)