On E List of Movie Reviews

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Easy Rider (1969)

Rate: 10
Viewed: 8/03, 12/03, 3/06, 7/07, 5/10, 1/16, 11/21

EasyR
3/06: "An astonishing work of art and an overpowering motion picture experience" is how one Los Angeles Times critic described Easy Rider.

Dennis Hopper, Peter Fonda, and Jack Nicholson will always be identified with this film. The tragic ending is memorable because of what George Hanson said: "They're scared of what you represent to 'em. What you represent to them is freedom."

The scenes with Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper riding on their bikes in front of the country through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Louisiana are absolutely thrilling.

All in all, there will never be another Easy Rider.

7/07: Easy Rider is a journey just like 2001: A Space Odyssey, so sit back, relax, and watch the film for the sheer pleasure.

5/10: When I found out Dennis Hopper had passed away, I knew it's time to see Easy Rider again.

All in all, Easy Rider is movie magic.

1/16: Easy Rider is a simple picture that captures the beauty of America, thanks to the perfect balance of László Kovács' photography and Donn Cambern's editing.

All in all, Dennis Hopper should be proud of delivering a cinema's equivalent of On the Road that's best described as an "overpowering motion picture experience."

11/21: Some have said Easy Rider hadn't aged well, but I don't agree with them.

Responsible for changing the landscape of Hollywood, the movie keeps getting better with relevant messages and stirring music. There are many powerful scenes that still resonate. The acid trip at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans is unforgettable. So is the ending.

Jack Nicholson toiled in B films for over ten years but didn't become a star until Easy Rider came out. From there on, he established himself as one of the most important actors of the 70's and would give a signature performance many times over. On the other hand, it's eerie to see Phil Spector at the beginning as he'll land in the slammer for life after murdering an actress in 2003.

All in all, Easy Rider is a landmark picture that captures the end of the 60's.