In a society where actors have gone as far as to adopt the methodologies of the characters they portray in the feature films, Tom Hardy has again demonstrated why the movie industry finds him relevant and unique. The latest metamorphosis for the upcoming film “The Bikeriders” is, therefore, not an exception of the above statement. As fans eagerly anticipate the release, there’s one element that’s generating considerable buzz: “I felt uncomfortable when Hardy used his voice for a character called Johnny who is an aggressive leader of a biker’s gang.”
Mais, surtout celle-ci, c’est très à NPC de Hardy pour se mettre à fond dans les personnages, et les voix qui vont avec, accents et tout le tout inclus. But this time, the source from which Johnny drew his character’s vocal persona to many viewers and listeners, has certainly caused much head-scratching in combined bewilderment and laughter. In a critical setup session of one of the first screenings of the movie, a film critic said, “Her ‘Takers’ co-star and ‘The Bikeriders’ Johnny, played by Tom Hardy has a voice, that has a familiar ring to it.” And for a hulking motorcycle gang leader, it is of course a very odd thing to do.
Still, the delivery is somewhat nasal with occasional hints of pitchiness and evenness that could reach somewhere between caricature and caricatural blandness, if unintentional. All in all, it is as if Johnny has a slight whimsical, and cartoonish feel to his overall personality. A bit like . .. Bugs Bunny?
The second trailer of “The Bikeriders” has just been officially released! The way I just screamed with excitement 😭 ❤️
Fun fact: Tom Hardy’s Italian voice actor in this is the same as Cillian Murphy’s and i couldn’t be happier about it 💛 pic.twitter.com/u5FPbcM8CE
— lili met austin butler (@lilibutlah) March 14, 2024
“Bingo!” Hardy bellows during a recent Zoom interview, crouching over his phone as if he’s trying to capture someone in the act of, well, bingo. To which he replies: “Yes, Bugs Bunny, 100%” “Why? Well, there’s some fun in that. It’s a playground for me to place ‘Taxi Driver’ and Disneyland side by side to maintain my character.
This revelation is stunning equally as much to fans as well as critics. This experiment of shooting the scene in the framework of a tough and uncompromising film about a biker club and then combining it with the comic character of the Private Eye and the Playmate of the Year is brave even for Hardy. The idea of putting together the deathly psychologists of ‘‘Taxi Driver’’ and the jolly side of the Disney characters reveals much about the actual processes of the actor, as well as his tendency to take risks on the stage.
Hardy continues, “Johnny is a multifaceted individual. Although he presents a harsh façade, I wanted to show off his playfulness and unpredictable nature. That’s exactly what Bugs Bunny represents. He’s witty, intelligent, and one step ahead of everyone. That essentially sums up Johnny.
Seen: The Bikeriders
I enjoyed this flick a lot and if this was the 90’s, it’d be a hit and Butler would be DiCaprio ‘97 popular based on smolder alone. It’s also awesome if you love Tom Hardy doing a voice and frankly, I’m here for it.
7/10 pic.twitter.com/DICYCnJkP1
— Casey “War Path” available on Prime/Tubi!! (@CapitalF) June 22, 2024
This out-of-the-ordinary decision has undoubtedly given “The Bikeriders,” which was directed by Jeff Nichols and inspired by Danny Lyon’s famous 1960s photos, an air of mystery. The film delves into the lives of members of a Midwestern motorcycle club, exploring their camaraderie, conflicts, and the often turbulent journey through a rapidly changing America. The focal point of this story is Hardy’s character, Johnny, whose voice is expected to be among the movie’s most talked-about elements.
Social media has been abuzz with clips and sound bites of Hardy’s portrayal. Some fans are thrilled by the fresh take, while others are bemused, trying to reconcile the tough, leather-clad biker with the familiar tones of their Saturday morning cartoon hero. But if there’s one thing Hardy excels at, it’s defying expectations.
“Tom Hardy is known for his transformative roles, but this is something else entirely,” tweeted one fan. “Johnny the biker sounds like Bugs Bunny – and I’m here for it!”
As “The Bikeriders” gears up for its theatrical release, it’s clear that Hardy’s latest role will be remembered not just for his intense performance but for the surprising, nostalgic twist he’s brought to it. Whether audiences find it genius or jarring, one thing is certain: Tom Hardy as Johnny will be a topic of conversation for a long time to come.
In an industry where innovation and bold choices are celebrated, Tom Hardy’s “Bikeriders” voice is a testament to his willingness to push boundaries and explore new creative territories. And who knows? Maybe Bugs Bunny himself would tip his hat to this unique homage from one of Hollywood’s finest. As the rabbit would say, “Ain’t he a stinker?”
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