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The World's Fastest Indian

Play trailer Poster for The World's Fastest Indian PG-13 Released Dec 7, 2005 2h 7m Biography Drama Play Trailer Watchlist
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82% Tomatometer 141 Reviews 89% Popcornmeter 25,000+ Ratings
New Zealander Burt Munro spent years perfecting his classic Indian motorcycle. The year is 1967, and Burt takes his machine to Utah's salt flats, where he attempts the impossible, using his dream bike to set a new world's record for speed. Based on a true story, the record Munro set more than three decades ago still has not been broken to this day.
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The World's Fastest Indian

The World's Fastest Indian

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Critics Consensus

Overcomes its formulaic storyline thanks to Anthony Hopkins' warm and endearing portrayal of an age-defying thrill seeker.

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Critics Reviews

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Joshua Katzman Chicago Reader This compelling fact-based story is [Donaldson's] best effort in years. Aug 6, 2008 Full Review Steve Rose Guardian It creaks and splutters all the way, but Hopkins' charm keeps it chugging along steadily. Rated: 3/5 Jan 27, 2007 Full Review Derek Adams Time Out It takes a while to adjust to this amiable film's languorous tempo but you might find it's worth the wait. Jun 24, 2006 Full Review Mike Massie Gone With The Twins Fun, straightforward, and enjoyable. Rated: 7/10 Nov 21, 2020 Full Review Richard Propes TheIndependentCritic.com It features the finest, and most unique, performance by Anthony Hopkins in years and will leave you smiling long after you leave the theatre. Rated: 3.0/4.0 Sep 27, 2020 Full Review Yasser Medina Cinefilia I had a time without watching an Anthony Hopkins movie as pleasant as 'The World's Fastest Indian ', by Australian director Roger Donaldson. His performance is the heart of the film. [Full review in Spanish] Rated: 7/10 Aug 4, 2020 Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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BRizz 2 The World’s Fastest Indian is a unique and heartfelt film starring Anthony Hopkins, who delivers a surprisingly charming performance as Burt Munro, an eccentric New Zealand man determined to set a land-speed record on his heavily modified 1920s Indian motorcycle. It’s interesting to see Hopkins—known for his intense and often chilling roles—portraying such a warm, quirky character at an older age. What makes this film stand out is the way it follows Burt’s relentless pursuit of his dream, despite his age, health problems, and the skepticism of those around him. The director takes us through Burt’s day-to-day life, where his odd habits—like urinating on his lemon tree or accidentally burning his grass—add humor and a touch of realism to his character. There’s also a genuine charm in his friendship with his young neighbor, which adds depth to the story and shows how Burt’s eccentricity inspires others. The film shifts gears when Burt leaves New Zealand for the United States to chase his dream. This part of the journey introduces both heartwarming and frustrating moments, including his decision to cheat on his girlfriend—a subplot that felt unnecessary and detracted from the story’s focus on perseverance and passion. Despite these missteps, the film is a moving portrayal of determination against all odds. It’s not just about speed or racing; it’s about chasing your dreams no matter how late in life it may seem. Hopkins brings warmth and humanity to Burt, making you root for him every step of the way. Final Verdict: While it’s a well-made and emotionally engaging film, it’s not particularly rewatchable. It’s the kind of movie you enjoy once, appreciate its heart, and then move on. Still, it’s worth seeing at least once for Hopkins’ performance and the inspiring true story. Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 07/25/25 Full Review Stephen C Based on a true story in 2 hours and 7 minutes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! PG-13 for Drug Use, Brief Language and Sexual Reference!!!!!!!!!!!! The USA grossed over $5,100,000.00!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Happy 20th anniversary!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Rated 5 out of 5 stars 07/22/25 Full Review Micky B A beautiful movie with a heartwarming performance from Hopkins. The ending is worth the journey of this sweet road trip, and the message in the end credits left a lump in my throat. Wow! One of Anthony Hopkins best and most underrated films! I first heard about this film from presenter Johnathan Ross during his Film reviews on tv. (Along with Big Lebowski) Rated 5 out of 5 stars 03/02/25 Full Review Garrett B The World's Fastest Indian has a great premise and a stellar performance from Hopkins. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 01/27/25 Full Review Will G Classic. Great all round, heartwarming tale. Rated 5 out of 5 stars 12/10/24 Full Review Mirage M Great acting, loves the story, was able to really get behind the characters Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 09/28/24 Full Review Read all reviews
The World's Fastest Indian

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Movie Info

Synopsis New Zealander Burt Munro spent years perfecting his classic Indian motorcycle. The year is 1967, and Burt takes his machine to Utah's salt flats, where he attempts the impossible, using his dream bike to set a new world's record for speed. Based on a true story, the record Munro set more than three decades ago still has not been broken to this day.
Director
Roger Donaldson
Producer
Roger Donaldson, Gary Hannam
Screenwriter
Roger Donaldson
Distributor
Magnolia Pictures
Production Co
3 Dogs and a Pony
Rating
PG-13 (Drug Use|Brief Language|Sexual Reference)
Genre
Biography, Drama
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Dec 7, 2005, Original
Release Date (Streaming)
Feb 17, 2017
Box Office (Gross USA)
$5.1M
Runtime
2h 7m
Sound Mix
Dolby Digital
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