Breaking Away (1979) is a beautifully shot movie, set in Bloomington, Indiana - a top college town. The story of the cycling sports movie crossed with a coming of age / dealing with class prejudice need little in the way of big budget and CGI, but instead, sensitive and sincere actors e.g young Dennis Quaid (Vantage Point) and Dennis Christopher who can convey the true personality of the character that the director envisaged.
The four main kids ('the Cutters', named this because of the stone cutting industry that once gave jobs to less educated boys from the town), enjoy being slackers, and in their city, I would too as there is this disused quarry that is filled with water that the boys like to swim in. It seems so chilled and heavenly. They have survived high school but didn't get into college. Now 19 years old they are prepared to spend the rest of years doing nothing. Consequently there is an ongoing conflict between the college kids and the townies, that is still present today in society. Luckily in Breaking Away, the 'Cutter' townies are deemed the 'good guys' that prevail.
A warmth of authenticity comes across in this film, stunning scenes of freewheeling or riding no hands through a green forest, the leaves glitter lime green in sunlight. Although, there is a wide range of feelings portrayed to the audience; sadness, longing, hope and love as the characters realise that youth won't last forever, or the moment when childhood heroes aren't as righteous as first seemed. Furthermore, it is moving when the father steps up to appreciate and support his son instead of hindering his dreams.
Yet what is more idyllic is the additional character of the bikes. They are so beautiful with their sleek, simplistic shape; the 1970s racing bike is now deemed vintage and has surged into popular/alternative culture in the 2010s.
This film is so pure, and perfect, that works for all viewers hoping for different genres. It is adorable and it makes you want to get on a bike and ride forever into the sunset. aaaaahh
*****
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