The Sidehackers

The Sidehackers, directed by Gus Trikonis in 1969, is a unique blend of action, drama, and motorcycle racing. The film stars Ross Hagen, Diane McBain, and Michael Pataki in leading roles. Though the film may not be mainstream, it has carved out its niche in motorcycle racing films of the 1960s period, attracting a following for its raw portrayal of the sport and its dramatic narrative.

In this film, Ross Hagen plays the charismatic Rommel, a motorbike aficionado who invents a new motorbike sport he calls "sidehacking". Sidehacks, or sidecars, are a one-wheeled device attached to the side of a motorcycle creating a third wheel, providing space for an additional passenger. This innovative concept is woven throughout the film, with many scenes depicting impressive sidehack races as Rommel introduces and promotes this engaging sport.

Diane McBain plays Rita, a captivating woman who becomes enthralled by Rommel's life in the fast-paced and dangerous world of motorcycle racing. Her performance affords a touch of romance and a feminine perspective to the high-stakes, male-dominated world the film unfolds in, enriching the story and increasing the tension.

Michael Pataki plays J.C., an unstable, hard-edge man who crosses paths with Rommel and Rita. His presence adds a new level of conflict and unforeseen circumstances that helps propel the storyline forward, turning a straightforward sports film into something much darker and more thrilling.

The Sidehackers is not merely a film about sidehack racing; it uses motorcycle racing as a backdrop for a plot filled with many twists and turns. The heart of the story is about the relationships forged in this intense environment and how these connections can quickly transform into dangerous conflicts. The characters' interactions often drive up the stakes, providing an important sense of realism to an otherwise action-packed film.

The cinematography of The Sidehackers is noteworthy for its realistic portrayal of dangerous motorcycle races. Many scenes were shot on actual dirt tracks where you can almost feel the dust and gravel flying. The film is also punctuated by excellently choreographed stunt sequences that highlight the risks involved in sidehack racing. These driving scenes are both exhilarating and terrifying, adding a sense of immediacy and risk to the plot.

Additionally, the performances in The Sidehackers are compelling, with each actor delivering a sense of earnestness to their characters. Ross Hagen stands out as Rommel, providing a nuanced portrayal of a man who is passionate about his sport yet struggles with its hidden dangers and the volatile relationships it fosters. Diane McBain and Michael Pataki complement Hagen's performance well with their depictions of complicated characters caught up in this turbulent world.

The Sidehackers also features a rather unique blend of different music genres, ranging from rock-n-roll to more psychedelic tunes that encapsulate the spirit and the counter-culture trends of its time. The music adds different layers to the overall narrative, aiding in setting the mood, whether it is the thrill of a tough race or the unfolding of an intense drama.

Ultimately, The Sidehackers uses the exciting and dangerous world of motorcycle racing to explore themes of passion, ambition, danger, and betrayal. The film's innovative subject matter, intense action sequences, compelling performances, and pulsating music have allowed it to stand the test of time, making it a memorable piece within the '60s action-drama genre. Whether you are a fan of motorcycle racing or just love a good old fashion competition drama, The Sidehackers is sure to leave an impression.