Motorcycles and the biker lifestyle have a fascinating appeal that has been captured in numerous film and television productions over the years.
From biker gangs to road movies and action films, these stories often explore themes of freedom, rebellion and the unique bond between the biker and his machine.
Here are some of the most important works that portray this universe.
Motorcycle movies and series
Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014)
This American series follows the lives of an outlaw motorcycle club, the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Original (SAMCRO), in the fictional town of Charming, California. The series deals with the club’s struggles with rival gangs, law enforcement, and internal problems as they try to maintain control of their town.
The production has 7 seasons and Charlie Hunnam in the lead role (known for his role in “King Arthur: Legend of the Sword”).
MC Maya (2018-2023)
Spin-off of the series “Sons of Anarchy”. It is set in the same fictional universe, two and a half years after the events of “Sons of Anarchy”. This series follows the story of the Mayans Motorcycle Club, a rival club that became allies of SAMCRO.
The plot revolves around Ezekiel “EZ” Reyes, a prodigy who ends up getting involved with a cartel and arrested. After leaving prison, he joins the Mayans MC EZ trying to build a new identity and deal with his past while getting involved in the club’s illegal and dangerous activities.
The Girl on the Motorbike (2016 – 2019)
Brazilian drama and adventure series, produced by Mixer with Fox and broadcast on SBT between 2016 and 2019.
In the story, Joana (Christiana Ubach) flees to São Paulo with her son to escape the millionaire Bernarda (Daniela Escobar), who is chasing her because she believes Joana had an affair with her late husband. In São Paulo, Joana works in a delivery company, where she faces new challenges and romances.
Torque (2004)
Directed by Jonathan Kahn (of “School Scream” fame), the film is known for its high-speed chase scenes and extreme motorcycle stunts.
In the plot, a motorcyclist who finds himself in a race against time to clear his name after being wrongly accused of murder. O
Easy Rider (1969)
Surely you have heard the song “Born to Be Wild”, by the band Steppenwolf, and you have associated the sound with motorcycles and long roads in the middle of the desert. This reference is to this landmark of New Hollywood cinema, which has become extremely referenced in pop culture.
Directed by Dennis Hopper, who is also an actor, the story follows two motorcyclists, Wyatt (Peter Fonda) and Billy (Hopper), on a road trip across the Southwestern United States.
Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
Directed by Walter Salles, this is a biopic that portrays the true journey of Ernesto “Che” Guevara (Gael García Bernal) and his friend Alberto Granado (Rodrigo de la Serna) through South America in 1952.
Based on the diaries Guevara wrote during the trip, the film shows Che’s personal transformation from a carefree young medical student to a revolutionary aware of the social and economic injustices of the continent.
The Wild Angels (1966)
Classic motorcycle film directed by master Roger Corman. This film is often credited with popularizing the motorcycle gang film genre and influencing pop culture of the time.
The story follows the Hell’s Angels gang, led by Heavenly Blues (Peter Fonda), as they get involved in conflicts with the police and other challenges while trying to save one of their own.
The cast also includes names like Nancy Sinatra and Bruce Dern.
Hells Angels on Wheels (1967)
Starring Jack Nicholson, this film directed by Richard Rush (The Replacement) captures the rebellious vibe and culture of the 1960s biker gangs.
The story follows Poet (Nicholson), a young motorcycle mechanic who becomes involved with the motorcycle gang known as the Hell’s Angels. Initially drawn to the group’s free-spirited lifestyle, he soon finds himself drawn into the conflict and violence surrounding the Angels.
Booming Fish (1983)
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, acclaimed for works such as “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now,” Rumble Fish is based on the novel of the same name by SE Hinton.
Starring Matt Dillon, Mickey Rourke, Diane Lane and Dennis Hopper, the film stands out for its unique visual style, shot in black and white with occasional pops of color.
The story follows a young rebel who idolizes his older brother, Motorcycle Boy. He is a legendary figure in the city and returns after a long absence. Now the two brothers face the tensions and challenges of their lives in a decadent and violent urban environment.
Clube dos Vândalos (The Motorcyclists) (2023)
Directed by Jeff Nichols (known for “Amor Bandido” and “Midnight Special”), the film is inspired by Danny Lyon’s book of photographs documenting the life of a motorcycle club in the 1960s.
In the plot we follow through Kathy’s eyes the rise of the Vandals, a motorcycle club led by Johnny, of which her husband is a member as the leader’s best friend. Kathy will have to deal with the transformation of the group, initially united by their passion for motorcycles, into a dangerous and violent gang.
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Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
