‘Fastest Indian’ is a bit slow off the mark

In the new film “The World’s Fastest Indian,” Burt Munro believes his 1920s motorcycle is the fastest in the world.

The movie follows the New Zealander’s journey to 1960s America, where his Indian bike’s speed will be timed and recorded. Arriving in Long Beach, Burt makes his way to the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah for the coveted speed record.

Anthony Hopkins plays the cantankerous Burt, an ordinary man in his 70s with an extraordinary dream. His days begin before dawn as he fires up his bike engine and the ire of his Kiwi neighbors trying to sleep.

The award-winning actor, with his ability to lose himself in roles such as Hannibal Lecter, is not unlike Burt. Absorbed and lost in his goal of raising enough money for the overseas trip, the retiree devotes his days to fine-tuning his bike. Content living alone, he is the local hero, socializing with friends and strangers alike.

Burt has the time and talent to turn his overhauled Indian into the fastest two wheels on the planet.

What the audience doesn’t know until later is whether he can operate the bike in a record-setting run.

It is hard to know whether he is fooling himself or the viewers, and the film keeps you guessing. Every major and minor obstacle threatens to end Burt’s 25-year dream.

The story shifts from Burt’s familiar world to America, where he is a stranger. The transition gives viewers the opportunity to see our country through the eyes of a visitor.

For instance, during his brief stay in a downtown Hollywood motel, Burt encounters hookers, transvestites and a used-car salesman trying to sell him a clunker. His adventures, and how he reacts to them, reveal an intelligence and deep-rooted sense of humanity behind his stubbornness.

The “World’s Fastest Indian” takes its time getting to the action. Knowing how Burt feels, the sacrifices and setbacks as well as the obstacles he faces, heightens the tension and enjoyment once the action takes off.

Hopkins, the improbable dream, the colorful characters and the high-speed scenes all add up to a good way to spend a couple of hours.

* PEGGY J. ROGERS, 40, produces commercial videos and documentaries.

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