Stone

Stone is an iconic Australian film noir, a cult motorcycle gang feature from the Seventies directed by Sandy Harbutt. It premiered in 1974, featuring Deryck Barnes, the director himself, Flicker, and Hugh Keays-Byrne in pivotal roles. Stone is a visceral and unfiltered exploration of counterculture movements, machismo, loyalty, and the brutalities and beauty of life on the fringes of society.

The film's protagonist is an undercover cop, Stone, played by Ken Shorter, who is strong, courageous, and displays a unique blend of toughness and sensitivity. After witnessing the assassination of a high-ranking political figure, a member of the Gravediggers, an outlaw motorcycle gang, is the only individual who can identify the killer. Given the perilous situation, Stone is assigned to protect the witness and uncover the mystery behind the assassination. However, as the story unfolds, Stone finds himself drawn into the subculture of these bikers, questioning not just his mission but also his way of life. The gang is led by Undertaker (Sandy Harbutt), flanked by Dr. Death (Deryck Barnes), and Toad (Hugh Keays-Byrne), each character combining to give a chilling authenticity to this unique tale.

The narrative of Stone is intricate, involving different layers of society, political power plays, rampant corruption, and the moral decay insidiously seeping into the lives of these individuals. It exposes the depth of loyalty, brotherhood, but also highlights the desperate struggle for survival in this outlaw world. The movie cannot be discussed without acknowledging the dynamism brought by the actors, particularly Deryck Barnes, Sandy Harbutt, and Hugh Keays-Byrne. Their performances deliver an edgy realism that's key to the film's narrative style.

The beauty of Stone lies in its representation of raw Australian counter-culture and biker life. The film is permeated with a sense of realism and authenticity. It showcases the culture of the Gravediggers, showcasing not merely the violence and anarchy often associated with such gangs, but also a certain ethos, a code of living that amalgamates brotherhood, pride, and a love for the open road. Stone offers a gritty and lustrous perspective on the urban counterculture during the mid-70s, revealing facets of society that are often overlooked or misunderstood.

In addition to a strong story, Stone is noted for its exquisite cinematography. The director used motorcycles not just as props for the plot, but also as a crucial element of visual storytelling. The roaring Kawasaki Z1 (900)'s, along with the authentic biker culture and adrenaline-packed chase sequences, contribute to the raw and gritty texture of the film. This compelling depiction of motorcycles as an extension of the lifestyle and personalities of the characters is one of the many unique things about Stone.

Harbutt's direction captures vibrant aspects of the biker lifestyle, takes us on a journey across breathtaking landscapes, and delves deep into the Gravediggers' world. His film inexorably pushes the envelope on the action and thrills front, making Stone a visually immersive cinematic experience. Among the film's notable scenes is one featuring around 400 bikers from real bike gangs who rode as extras in a funeral procession, which is nothing short of a grand spectacle.

Even after decades, Stone commands a considerable cult following, symbolizing an entire subculture and serving as a trendsetter in its genre. Stone's influence can be seen in the subsequent biker flicks and even in the Mad Max franchise. In essence, Stone transgresses the boundaries of the action genre, anchoring itself in the annals of Australian cinematic history.

72 minutes of pure adrenalin-pumping action, Stone is more than just a biker film. It's an exploration of the anti-establishment feeling of the 70s, a study of characters living life on their terms, and a fusion of action, suspense, and drama. Its stark depiction of an era, an unconventional lifestyle, and its bold narrative construct make Stone an undeniably classic piece of 70s Australian cinema. Whether one is a motorcycle enthusiast or a fan of good old action cinema, Stone is undoubtedly worth a ride!