Theatrefella

I knew nothing of this film before seeing it. This film is just plain terrific on so many levels. The performance of Sir Anthony is one of his best. The ensemble, whether in New Zealand or the US, is top flight. Rodger Donaldson's story and direction show a true work of love. This film is filled with amazing moments. The dialog and interplay of the characters is rich and utterly believable. The fact that someone so unknown to the general public has such a rich story waiting to be told is such a great unexpected gift. You don't need to know a wit about motorcycles to get ALL of the value from this film. And yes the end will draw a tear or four no matter who you are. Thank you Rodger Donaldson for your gift of this movie.

I saw this film at the Telluride film festival in 98 or 99. This film has never left me. Making critical comments on this film is simply foolish. The director and Heather filmed this film over a 5 year period due to the physical limitations of the writer/actress. This was a labor of love and inspiration. This was a project that stunningly provides an impeccable vision into a kind of life that is led by some of our fellow human beings that the rest of us would prefer to deny. Some of the comments have indicated that they were uncomfortable or that they did not get it or they didn't not care for the gratuitous moments of the film. Well tough. This is reality, the pain of body, mind and spirit and the conquering of these trials by a monumental demonstration of power, creativity and fortitude that those of us defined as "normal" can not hope to understand or match. This film is a must see for any young person or adult who wants or needs an amazing reality check. This film is a vehicle to tell a story of freedom and unquenched intellect trapped but not surrendered.