A fondo

In the world of cinematic storytelling, where cars often take the spotlight in action-packed sequences and adrenaline-fueled chases, it's refreshing to come across a film that shifts the focus to motorcycles. For motorcycle enthusiasts like me, it's a rare treat to see a movie where the plot, characters, and emotions revolve around the world of bikes. This film captures that essence perfectly, creating an experience that resonates deeply with anyone who shares a love for motorcycles.

Motorcycle movies are few and far between, which makes this film all the more special. While car movies have carved out their niche with franchises like *Fast and Furious* or classics like *Bullitt*, the world of bikes has often been relegated to the sidelines. However, this movie proves that motorcycles can carry a film with as much, if not more, intensity and passion as any car-based narrative. The movie doesn't just use bikes as props for chase sequences or flashy stunts; instead, it places them at the heart of the story, making them integral to the characters' identities and the unfolding drama.

From the opening scene, you can feel the filmmakers' respect and admiration for motorcycles. The cinematography captures the raw power and grace of the bikes, with sweeping shots that highlight their design and engineering beauty. The sound design is another aspect where the movie excels; the roar of the engines, the screech of tires on asphalt, and even the subtle purring of a finely tuned machine are all treated with the reverence they deserve. This attention to detail creates an immersive experience that pulls you into the world of the characters and their beloved motorcycles.

What truly sets this film apart is how it portrays the relationship between the riders and their bikes. For many of us, motorcycles are more than just vehicles; they are extensions of ourselves, reflecting our personalities and our sense of freedom. The film understands this deeply. The characters' connection to their bikes is portrayed with a sincerity that is rarely seen in mainstream cinema. The thrill of a race, or the simple act of working on the bike in the garage, these moments are depicted with an authenticity that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the wind in their hair while riding.

The plot of the movie is tightly woven around the world of motorcycles, making it more than just an action flick. It explores themes of fatherhood, love, and the pursuit of passion, all of which are universal, but they are given a unique twist through the lens of motorcycle culture. The characters are well developed. This adds a layer of depth to the narrative, making it more than just a series of high-octane sequences.

One of the highlights of the movie is how it showcases different aspects of motorcycle culture. From racing scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat to more serene moments that capture the meditative nature of a couple ride through the riverside, the film offers a comprehensive look at what it means to be a motorcycle enthusiast.

Despite the film's strengths, it seems that not everyone appreciated its focus on motorcycles. Some reviews have criticized it for being too niche or for not having enough broad appeal. But for those of us who live and breathe motorcycles, this is precisely what makes the movie so special. It's not trying to cater to everyone; it's a film made for us, the motorcycle enthusiasts. And in doing so, it creates a more authentic and heartfelt experience.

In a landscape dominated by car movies, this film stands out as a beacon for motorcycle lovers. It's a celebration of everything we love about bikes-the speed, the freedom, the camaraderie, and the passion. Watching it, you can't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement, seeing your own experiences and emotions reflected on the screen.

I can only hope that the success of this film leads to more motorcycle-centric movies in the future. There is a wealth of stories waiting to be told, and if done with the same level of care and respect as this film, they could easily captivate audiences around the world. Whether or not the filmmakers listen to the critics and decide to tone down the bike-centric focus in future projects, I sincerely hope they continue to explore the rich and vibrant world of motorcycles.

So, if you're a motorcycle enthusiast-or even if you're just curious about what makes us love these machines so much-this movie is a must-watch. It's more than just entertainment; it's an experience that celebrates the passion and spirit of motorcycle culture. And who knows, it might just inspire more films that put bikes front and center, where they truly belong.

Now this was a movie that I kinda had my eye on, but only for some of the actors attached to this project. Now I didn't have any excitement for this movie, but I gotta be honest after watching this movie, I actually enjoyed this movie more than I would've anticipated.

Positives for One Fast Move (2024): This was a very simple sports drama movie with some great racing scenes and it's done very well. I also enjoyed the cast of actors in this movie to where you have some recognizable people attached to the project including KJ Apa, Eric Dane, Maia Reficco, Edward James Olmos and Austin North. I actually really enjoyed KJ Apa as the main character and it was so good to not see him making me cringe, but then again I put the blame on Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa. I also really enjoyed his dynamics with both Eric Dane and Maia Reficco. And finally, the racing scenes in this movie are done very well.

Negatives for One Fast Move (2024): There are certain things about KJ Apa's charactersy particularly in regards to his backstory that really left me scratching my head. And finally, the movie is a little bit too long for me.

Overall, One Fast Move (2024) is a great sports drama movie that I had a lot of fun with it.

No pun intended - if you like racing movies, I might not even have to say or write anything here. Just go watch it I reckon. On the other hand, maybe you do care about casting (I do like the actors involved, check them out and see if they play a role for you - again no pun intended) ... and/or the story there may be something to check before you decide to watch anyway.

All that said, do no forget this is a low budget movie. And not even close to be compared to Fast & Furious (which was also a remake of something completely different and all that). So while there may not be anything new to watch here (racing scenes are well shot I should add), it all depends on your own taste ...

Wes Neal (K. J. Apa) is released from prison after six months for street racing. He is desperate to go into professional motorcycle racing and seeks help from his biological father Dean Miller (Eric Dane). Dean doesn't know him, has never took responsibility, and is well past his prime. Wes falls for waitress Camila (Maia Reficco). Abel (Edward James Olmos) is the mechanic and owns a bike shop.

This is a racing B-movie. The racing is fine although it would help to make Wes stand out among the crowd. That's half the battle and that part is fine. It taught me one small thing about racing. The other half is the story and the characters and all the rest. That part is not so fine. I get the father-son dysfunction, but that's all this movie has. The girlfriend has one interesting aspect. After that card gets played, the story has nothing else. Edward James Olmos is wasted in an one-dimensional role. The story needs a villain. They give the rival family, but the movie does nothing to showcase them. This is a not-so-good B-movie.

What's good: some of the concepts around grassroots racing, some of the lingo

What's bad: everything else. This movie failed to achieve anything well.

I suppose this movie isn't unique in its failure to deliver on all fronts when compared to other motorcycle, go-kart, or car racing movies but with every bad example produced, there is evidence of what not to do and the bar for bare minimum should get higher each time, automatically so my expectations, maybe hope, is that it will get better.

Maybe the subject matter experts bounce around from one project to another and that's where the potential is limited.