Summary
There are several other movies likeThe Bikeriders, in terms of tone, themes, and key characters. Directed by Jeff Nichols, the drama-crime film delves into the rugged world of a 1960s Chicago biker gang. Adapted from Danny Lyon’s photographic book,The Bikeridersintricately weaves fictional narratives with real-life inspirationsdrawn from Lyon’s interviews. The story centers on Kathy (Jodie Comer), who becomes deeply enmeshed with the Vandals motorcycle club after falling for Benny (Austin Butler), a charismatic member whose genuine nature stands out in a sea of rough personalities. However,The Bikeriders’reviewshave been mixed.
While praised for its compelling performances—especially Butler’s magnetic portrayal of Benny—and its vivid depiction of the biker lifestyle, some critics have pointed out that the narrative becomes overly burdened by its dramatic elements.The Bikeriderssoundtrackfeatures blues, rock, and R&B that effectively capture the late 1960s and midwestern motorcycle culture and evoke nostalgia for anyone familiar with it. For those who enjoyed the movie,the good news is that there are many others like it from every decade since the 1950s.
1953
6.7/10
75%
1969
7.2/10
84%
1979
6.8/10
90%
1981
6.1/10
1983
7/10
70%
2004
7.7/10
83%
2005
7.8/10
82%
2012
7.4/10
97%
2014
6/10
57%
89%
The Bikeriders' Post-Credits Photos Explained
The Bikeriders includes special images after the film’s ending, and the post-credits photos have a direct connection to the movie’s true story.
The Wild One
Cast
The Wild One is a drama film directed by László Benedek, starring Marlon Brando as Johnny Strabler, the leader of a rebellious motorcycle gang that invades a small California town, causing tension and chaos among the residents.
The Wild One, directed by László Benedek, is a seminal biker film that solidified Marlon Brando’s status as an iconic figure in Hollywood. Brando stars as Johnny Strabler, the rebellious leader of the Black Rebels Motorcycle Club, whose disdain for authority and magnetic presence dominate the screen. The plot revolves around Johnny’s tumultuous romance with Kathie Bleeker, the daughter of a local sheriff, amidst escalating tensions with a rival gang. This 1953 film not only showcased Brando’s undeniable charisma but also became a cultural touchstonefor its portrayal of the rebellious biker subculture, influencing countless films that followed.
AfterThe Wild One, Marlon Brando’s Schott Perfecto leather jacket and motorcycle attire became iconic symbols of rebellion and coolness. It not only influenced fashion trends of the 1950s but also contributed to the popular image of the “bad boy” biker, cementing the enduring association between leather jackets and counterculture.
The Wild Oneis often regarded as one of the best movies in the biker genredue to its groundbreaking depiction of motorcycle gangs and its exploration of themes like rebellion and identity. Brando’s performance is the heart of the film, much like Butler inThe Bikeriders. The British Board of Film Classification bannedThe Wild Onefor its perceived glorification of crime and violence, a testament to its impact and the societal concerns it stirred.
Easy Rider
Easy Rider is an iconic 1969 road movie directed by Dennis Hopper, who also stars alongside Peter Fonda. The film follows two bikers, Wyatt and Billy, as they journey across the American Southwest and South with the aim of achieving freedom and escaping conventional society. Along the way, they encounter a range of characters that reflect the societal tensions and counterculture of the 1960s. Featuring a groundbreaking rock soundtrack and stunning cinematography, Easy Rider.captures the spirit of rebellion and the pursuit of personal freedom, becoming a seminal work in American film history.
Easy Rideris another landmark American biker film. Directed by Dennis Hopper, it follows two bikers, Billy (Hopper himself) and Wyatt (Peter Fonda), on a journey from Los Angeles to New Orleans. Along their way, they encounter George Hanson (Jack Nicholson), a free-spirited attorney who joins them and significantly influences their odyssey. This film not only chronicles their quest for freedom and exploration of America but also captures the spirit of the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
Jack Nicholson’s performance as Hanson was transformative for his career, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor and catapulting him from B-list status to the Hollywood A-list.
Easy Rideris often hailed as one of the most influential movies of all time, similar toThe Bikeridersin its exploration of the biker subculture and themes of rebellion and freedom.It played a crucial role in the New Hollywood movement, characterized by a shift towards more personal and experimental filmmaking on a lower budget.Easy Rider’s unexpected box office success, coupled with its subversive narrative and innovative style, made it a cultural phenomenon amid wider tension over the Vietnam War and widespread nihilism among marginalized American youth.
Mad Max
Mad Max is a 1979 sci-fi action film from director and writer George Miller. Mel Gibson stars as Max a police officer in the future who goes after a gang of vicious motorcycle thugs. The film led to a long-running franchise including The Road Warrior, Beyond Thunderdome, Fury Road, and Furiosa.
Mad Maxis a groundbreaking Australian dystopian action film that catapulted Mel Gibson to international stardom. Set in a bleak, post-apocalyptic future where law and order have broken down, the story follows Max Rockatansky (Gibson), a highway patrol officer seeking revenge against a violent motorcycle gang led by the ruthless Toecutter (Hugh Keays-Byrne). As society crumbles around him, Max transforms from a dedicated officer to a vengeful vigilante after the gang murders his family.
Directed by George Miller,Mad Max’s high-octane chases, gritty atmosphere, and visceral action sequences set a new standard for the biker action genre. LikeThe Bikeriders, which delves into the dynamics of a motorcycle club,Mad Maxexplores the chaos and camaraderie of biker culture, albeit in a more dystopian setting.The film’s low-budget yet high-impact approach influenced countless future action moviesand cemented its place as a cult classic.
Every Mad Max Movie, Ranked Worst To Best
George Miller has made five Mad Max movies in the post-apocalyptic franchise, but their quality can vary. The Mad Max movies ranked reveals the best.
The Loveless
The Loveless is a 1981 film set in the 1950s, directed by Kathryn Bigelow and Monty Montgomery. The film follows a group of bikers, led by Telena, who ride into a small American town, disrupting the local atmosphere. As tensions rise, the bikers' presence sparks a confrontation between the town’s authorities and the rebellious outsiders.
The Lovelessis a compelling entry in the biker movie genre that features Willem Dafoe in one of his earliest starring roles. The plot centers on a group of bikers who gather at a roadside diner en route to the Daytona race, stirring unease among the diner’s management and patrons. The tension soon escalates into a series of violent confrontations, capturing the volatile dynamics between the bikers and the local community.
Dafoe’s portrayal of Vance, the charismatic and enigmatic leader of the biker gang, is a standout performance that hints at his future success in Hollywood.The Lovelessquickly gained a cult following upon its release, praised for its gritty realism and atmospheric storytelling. Filmed on a tight budget,the movie’s success lies in its raw depiction of biker culture and the sense of community within the gang. Kathryn Bigelow’s directorial debut showcases her distinctive style and sets the stage for her acclaimed career in filmmaking.
The Outsiders
The Outsiders is Francis Ford Coppola’s adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s coming-of-age drama novel. Two teen gangs, the Socials and the Greasers find themselves at irreconcilable odds when one of the Social’s boys is killed in a brawl. Following the event, the Greasers head into hiding while some of them seek redemption for their past crimes.
The Outsidersis a foundational coming-of-age film based on S.E. Hinton’s novel of the same name. It features an ensemble cast of future stars, including C. Thomas Howell, Matt Dillon, Ralph Macchio, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Tom Cruise, and Diane Lane. The plot revolves around the lives of two rival teenage gangs, the Greasers and the Socs, in 1960s Oklahoma.The Outsidersfollows Ponyboy Curtis (Howell) and his close-knit group of friends as they navigate social tensions, violence, and the struggle for identity and belonging. The film’s portrayal of youthful rebellion and brotherhood has made it a beloved classic.
Directed by Francis Ford Coppola,The Outsidersresonates with audiences for its authentic depiction of teenage angst and class conflict. The film’s critical reception praised its emotional depth and the powerful performances of its cast, particularly Howell and Dillon.The Outsiderscaptures the spirit of youthful rebellion and the bonds formed in the face of adversity, themes that are central toThe Bikeriders. Both films delve into subcultures and the challenges faced by those on the fringes of society.
20 Biker Movies To Watch If You Like Sons Of Anarchy
From classics like Easy Rider to modern greats like The Motorcycle Diaries, here are the essential biker movies for Sons of Anarchy fans.
The Motorcycle Diaries
The Motorcycle Diaries is a poignant biographical film directed by Walter Salles, based on the memoirs of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara. In 1952, a young Guevara embarks on a transformative motorcycle journey across South America with his friend Alberto Granado. As they traverse diverse landscapes and encounter various indigenous communities, the experiences deeply affect Guevara’s worldview, shaping his future as a revolutionary leader. This film beautifully captures the essence of youthful adventure and the awakening of social consciousness, set against the stunning backdrop of the Latin American countryside. It’s a tale of friendship and self-discovery.
The Motorcycle Diariespresents a compelling and introspective look at the early life of Che Guevara, long before he became a revolutionary icon. Based on Guevara’s memoirs, the film chronicles his 1950s journey across South America as a young medical student. Gael García Bernal stars as Che, delivering a nuanced performance that captures the transformative experiences of his youth. Directed by renowned Brazilian filmmaker Walter Salles,The Motorcycle Diarieseschews the high-octane action typical of biker movies, opting instead for a thoughtful exploration of the events and interactions that influenced Guevara’s worldview.
This reflective road movie stands out in the genre for its focus on character development and social commentary. As Guevara’s motorcycle breaks down, he is compelled to engage deeply with the diverse peoples and landscapes of South America, witnessing firsthand the widespread poverty and oppression. Salles' direction and Eric Gautier’s cinematography beautifully capture this journey of self-discovery, makingThe Motorcycle Diariesa poignant narrative about personal growth and social awareness.
The World’s Fastest Indian
The World’s Fastest Indian is a biographical drama film directed by Roger Donaldson, which tells the heartwarming story of Burt Munro, a New Zealander who spent years building a 1920 Indian motorcycle. Burt dreams of setting a new land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Despite financial and physical obstacles, his relentless optimism and inventive spirit propel him toward his goal. This inspirational story highlights themes of perseverance and passion, as Munro’s journey embodies the spirit of determination and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
Directed by Roger Donaldson,The World’s Fastest Indianoffers a refreshing take on the biker movie genre with its heartwarming and inspiring true story. Anthony Hopkins stars as Burt Munro, an elderly New Zealand motorcycle enthusiast who becomes obsessed with setting a land speed record on his customized 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle. The film follows Munro’s journey as he overcomes numerous challenges, from technical setbacks to financial struggles, all while pursuing his dream against the odds.
Unlike the gritty and often intense portrayals of biker culture seen inThe Bikeriders,this movie focuses on Munro’s passion for motorcycles and his determination to achieve greatness. Hopkins delivers a captivating performance that captures Munro’s eccentricity, charm, and unwavering spirit. The film blends humor, drama, and inspiration seamlessly, making it a standout within the genre.
Mud
Written and directed by Jeff Nichols, Mud is a Drama starring Matthew McConaughey. The plot sees two teenagers stumble upon a fugitive hiding out on a small secluded island and agree to help him evade capture.
Mudis a coming-of-age drama set in rural Arkansas that intricately weaves themes of friendship, love, and disillusionment. The film stars Matthew McConaughey as Mud, a mysterious fugitive living on a remote island in the Mississippi River. When two teenage boys, Ellis (Tye Sheridan) and Neckbone (Jacob Lofland), discover Mud hiding out, they strike up a pact to help him evade capture and reunite with his lost love, Juniper (Reese Witherspoon). As the boys become entangled in Mud’s world, they confront harsh truths about love and loyalty while navigating the complexities of adulthood in a rustic Southern setting.
Mudstands out as a poignant exploration of character and environment. Nichols' direction and the authentic performances by McConaughey, Sheridan, and Lofland contributed to the film’s critical acclaim. Praised for its evocative storytelling and richly drawn characters,Mudresonates with audiences for its atmospheric depiction of the American South. Now regarded as a modern classic, it is thematically similar toThe Bikeridersin terms of itsportrayal of Southern culture and in its exploration of individuals navigating their own moral landscapes amidst challenging circumstances.
Road to Paloma
Road to Paloma is a 2014 American drama thriller directed and starred in by Jason Momoa. The film follows Wolf, a Native American on the run after avenging his mother’s murder. As he travels across the American West on his motorcycle, he seeks redemption and peace while being pursued by the law. Along the way, Wolf forms deep bonds and confronts societal injustices, exploring themes of freedom, justice, and the harsh realities faced by Native American communities. The film is a poignant journey through breathtaking landscapes, emphasizing personal resolve and cultural respect.
Road to Paloma(2014) is a compelling drama that blends elements of a road movie with a tale of personal vengeance and redemption.The film is co-written and directed by Jason Momoa, who also starsas Robert Wolf, a Native American biker who takes the law into his own hands after avenging the brutal rape and murder of his mother. On the run from federal agents, Wolf embarks on a poignant journey across the American West to scatter his mother’s ashes on his sister’s property. In the process, he encounters various characters and confronts his past.
Jason Momoa used his own custom Harley-Davidson motorcycle for Road to Paloma. The film was made on a very modest budget, with Momoa enlisting the help of friends and family, including his wife Lisa Bonet, who features in a cameo role.
Momoa’s performance and direction received praise for their authenticity and emotional depth, solidifying the film’s status as a notable entry in the biker genre.Road to Paloma’s raw and visceral portrayal of revenge and the solitary journey of its protagonist feel similar toThe Bikeriders, as does its exploration of themes like loyalty, justice, and the quest for peace.The films also share a gritty, rugged aestheticand a powerful sense of mission.
The Drop (2014)
The Drop(2014) is a gripping crime drama about the underbelly of Brooklyn’s criminal world. The film stars Tom Hardy as Bob Saginowski, a quiet and unassuming bartender who finds himself entangled in a robbery gone wrong at his cousin Marv’s bar. James Gandolfini, in one of his final roles, portrays Marv, a former crime boss who has fallen on hard times and is now under the control of Chechen gangsters. The plot thickens as Bob discovers an abandoned pit bull puppy, leading him to cross paths with Nadia (Noomi Rapace) and her menacing ex-boyfriend Eric Deeds (Matthias Schoenaerts.)
Hardy’s nuanced portrayal of Bob brings a depth to the character, making him both vulnerable and formidable. Gandolfini’s performance adds a layer of authenticity and gravitas to the film, serving as a fitting tribute to his legacy.The Dropwas written by acclaimed author Dennis Lehane, based on his short storyAnimal Rescue, which he later expanded into a novel too. The film received positive reviews for its tightly woven plot, atmospheric tension, and character-driven storytelling. Much likeThe Bikeriders, it explores themes of loyalty, crime, and the struggles of individuals trying to navigate a harsh and unforgiving world.
