Wednesday, November 02, 2005

"The World's Fastest Indian" will open the Denver International Film Festival in grand style

Those attending opening night film and celebrations for the Denver International Film Festival next week will be treated to one of the most crowd pleasing films to come along in quite some time. Anthony Hopkins stars as Burt Munro, an old speed freak from down under, New Zealand, only the kind of speed he's into can only be found on a motorcycle. His lifelong dream has been to travel to the US and hit the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah to become the Fastest Indian of all time. The film tells the tale of how he achieved his dream, at the spry age of 72. It's a ribald tall tale that just so happens to be true, and to this day Munro still holds records for his racing category. When I first heard the premise it sure sounded limited in for broad-based interest and crowd appeal, but the reality is that "The World's Fastest Indian" may be the feel good film of the year, and thoroughly engaging all the way through it's 2 hour running time. There is very little to challenge the viewer, as the film rides along like standard hollywood fare, but the story itself is good enough to make for a purposeful journey, and the acting by Hopkins is simply top notch. There should not be a dry eye in the house when this screens, and not because it's a sad story...rather it's an uplifiting tale that has many lessons about how to approach life, and how treating strangers with respect may lead to extremely satisfying results. Hats off to the programming staff for getting another winner for opening night............Those who want to participate in the opening night experience should contact the denver film society, or visit www.denverfilm.org