Tom Hardy, the acclaimed Oscar nominee, has taken an unconventional approach to his latest role in the biker movie The Bikeriders. In an interview with Variety, Hardy discussed the creative decisions that led to his biker character sounding unexpectedly like Bugs Bunny.
Breaking the Mold in Biker Films
The Bikeriders features a star-studded cast, including Austin Butler and Jodie Comer. Hardy explained that he aimed to subvert the typical expectations associated with biker movies. “You look straight away at a biker movie and think, ‘Oh, it’s leather. It’s sexy. The music’s great. The hair’s great’,” Hardy remarked. He deliberately chose to veer away from these clichés.
Crafting a “Tragic Clown”
Describing his character as a “tragic clown,” Hardy delved into the nuances that set his portrayal apart. “The obvious choice for somebody like me is to go to the counterpoint of all those,” he said, emphasizing his desire to highlight the character’s vulnerabilities. Hardy asked himself questions like, “Where’s the pathetic element? Where’s the wretch? Where’s the embarrassing moments? Where’s the weaknesses?” This introspective process led him to flesh out a character with relatable imperfections.
The Bugs Bunny Influence
Hardy’s decision to give his character a voice reminiscent of Bugs Bunny was a deliberate attempt to imbue the “studly” biker with traits that made him more accessible and human. “Why is the voice a little bit creepy? Why is it a little like Bugs Bunny?” he pondered. Hardy wanted to ensure that the character had quirks that made him identifiable, stating, “What can we imbue this stud with that’s so un-studly that I can identify with it? Because I’m not that!”
A Glimpse into the Film
Set in Chicago during the 1960s, The Bikeriders explores the lives of the Outlaws MC, their families, and loved ones. The film not only stars Hardy, Butler, and Comer but also features performances from two-time Oscar nominee Michael Shannon and Mike Faist, known for his recent role in the tennis drama Challengers.
Hardy’s innovative approach to his role in The Bikeriders demonstrates his commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging genre norms, promising a unique cinematic experience for audiences.
