48 Facts About The Movie Knightriders

Knightriders was directed by George A. Romero.

George A. Romero, known for his work in the horror genre, took a departure from his usual style with this unique film.

The movie was released in 1981.

In the early ’80s, Knightriders debuted and offered audiences a refreshing blend of drama, action, and medieval reenactments.

The story follows a group of motorcycle-riding knights.

Knightriders revolves around a traveling troupe of modern-day knights who engage in jousting matches while riding motorcycles instead of horses.

Ed Harris plays the lead role of King Billy.

Ed Harris delivers a captivating performance as the charismatic leader of the motorcycle knights and brings depth to his complex character.

The film explores themes of loyalty and the clash between personal desires and societal expectations.

Knightly codes are put to the test as the characters navigate their own aspirations while staying true to the principles of honor and chivalry.

Tom Savini, a renowned special effects artist, appears in the film as Morgan.

Savini not only showcases his acting skills but also contributes to the movie’s practical effects, adding a touch of realism to the medieval battles.

The movie features an eclectic soundtrack.

From classical music to rock and roll, the film’s soundtrack provides a diverse range of musical accompaniment to the action-packed scenes.

Knightriders incorporates elements of Arthurian legend.

With its focus on knights, chivalry, and honor, the film pays homage to the timeless tales of King Arthur and his Round Table.

The movie was not a box office success.

Despite its unique concept and talented cast, Knightriders did not perform well commercially, but it has since gained a cult following.

The jousting scenes were carefully choreographed.

Stunt coordinators and professional jousters worked together to execute thrilling and realistic jousting sequences.

Knightriders provides a social commentary on counterculture movements.

The film explores the clash between the unconventional lifestyle of the motorcycle-riding knights and the mainstream society they reject.

The movie showcases real-life renaissance fair performers.

George A. Romero cast actual renaissance fair participants to add authenticity to the film’s medieval festival scenes.

The film’s budget was relatively modest.

With a budget of around $4 million, Knightriders demonstrated that compelling storytelling doesn’t always require a massive financial investment.

The motorcycle stunts were performed by professional riders.

Experienced motorcycle stuntmen were hired to execute the daring and thrilling motorcycle sequences in the movie.

Knightriders features an ensemble cast of talented actors.

In addition to Ed Harris, the film includes notable performances from Tom Savini, Gary Lahti, Amy Ingersoll, and more.

The film explores the conflict between tradition and modernity.

Knightriders delves into the struggles faced by individuals trying to preserve traditional values in a rapidly changing world.

The movie was shot on location in Pennsylvania.

The picturesque landscapes of Pennsylvania provide a stunning backdrop for the film’s medieval reenactments and motorbike adventures.

Knightriders received mixed reviews from critics.

Critics had varying opinions on the film, with some praising its originality while others felt it lacked focus and cohesion.

The concept for the movie was inspired by a dream George A. Romero had.

Romero dreamed of modern-day knights engaging in jousting matches, which served as the catalyst for the creation of Knightriders.

The film’s runtime is approximately 145 minutes.

With its extensive character development and intricate plot, Knightriders offers audiences a compelling and immersive cinematic experience.

Tom Savini’s real-life daughter appears in the film.

Tom Savini’s daughter, Jennifer, plays the role of a young girl who idolizes the motorcycle knights and serves as an audience surrogate.

The movie explores the concept of personal freedom.

Knightriders highlights the struggles faced by individuals who yearn for personal autonomy in a society that often restricts individuality.

The screenplay for the film was written by George A. Romero.

In addition to directing, Romero penned the screenplay, infusing it with his unique vision and storytelling style.

The movie was dedicated to the memory of Duane Jones.

George A. Romero dedicated Knightriders to the late Duane Jones, who starred in his groundbreaking film Night of the Living Dead.

The film’s title was inspired by medieval tales of knights.

The term “Knightriders” evokes imagery of brave warriors on horseback, merging the archaic with the modern motorcycle culture.

The movie explores the complexities of leadership.

King Billy’s role as the leader of the motorcycle knights is fraught with challenges as he tries to balance his personal desires with the expectations placed upon him.

Knightriders showcases stunning costume designs.

The film’s costumes authentically reflect the medieval aesthetic, adding visual flair to the characters and their performances.

The film received a limited release.

Knightriders initially had a limited distribution, which may have contributed to its lackluster box office performance.

Knightriders is considered a departure from George A. Romero’s earlier horror films.

Known primarily for his influential zombie movies, Romero surprised audiences with this unconventional and genre-bending film.

The movie delves into the idealism and disillusionment of the counterculture movement.

Through the character arcs of the motorcycle knights, Knightriders explores the clash between the optimistic ideals of the counterculture and the harsh realities of society.

The film examines the concept of chosen family.

Knightriders showcases the tight-knit bond among the motorcycle knights, portraying them as a makeshift family united by their shared passion.

Knightriders has gained a cult following over the years.

Despite its initial commercial reception, the film has developed a dedicated fan base who appreciate its unique blend of genres and thought-provoking themes.

The movie features impressive practical effects.

From the jousting tournaments to the spectacular crash sequences, Knightriders’s practical effects add a visceral and thrilling dimension to the film.

Knightriders explores the struggle between conformity and individuality.

The characters in the film embody the tension between conforming to societal norms and embracing their own individual identities.

The film’s dialogue is both poignant and thought-provoking.

Knightriders’s script offers memorable lines that underscore the film’s themes of personal freedom, honor, and the quest for authenticity.

Knightriders features intense and emotionally charged performances.

The cast’s dedication to their roles lends depth and authenticity to the characters, making their journeys all the more compelling.

The film’s production faced financial challenges.

Despite its modest budget, Knightriders encountered financial obstacles during production, requiring the cast and crew to make creative solutions.

Knightriders blends action, drama, and fantasy elements seamlessly.

The film effortlessly combines thrilling motorcycle stunts, emotional character arcs, and elements of medieval folklore into a cohesive and engaging narrative.

The movie examines the struggle between personal desires and societal obligations.

The motorcycle knights in Knightriders grapple with the tension between pursuing their individual dreams and upholding the expectations of the knightly brotherhood.

Knightriders offers stunning cinematography.

The film’s visual presentation captures both the beauty of the natural landscapes and the intensity of the action sequences, immersing viewers in the world of the motorcycle knights.

George A. Romero’s daughter, Tina Romero, appears in the film.

Tina Romero has a small role in Knightriders, showcasing the familial connections within the production.

The movie has a running time of 146 minutes.

With its rich storytelling and intricate character development, Knightriders takes the audience on an immersive journey that spans nearly two and a half hours.

The film explores the conflict between commercialism and artistic integrity.

Knightriders delves into the internal struggle faced by the motorcycle knights as they balance their desire for financial success with their commitment to their artistic vision.

Knightriders is known for its thematic depth.

Beyond the action and spectacle, the film touches on profound themes such as self-discovery, identity, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

The movie boasts a powerful and emotive original score.

The musical composition of Knightriders enhances the film’s dramatic moments, heightening the emotional impact of the story.

Knightriders exemplifies George A. Romero’s versatile directorial skills.

The film showcases Romero’s ability to explore different genres and tackle complex themes beyond the horror genre he is primarily known for.

The movie serves as a commentary on the American dream.

Knightriders examines the disillusionment experienced by the characters as they strive to achieve their personal dreams while grappling with the constraints of their society.

Knightriders offers a unique cinematic experience.

With its blend of motorcycle stunts, medieval reenactments, and introspective storytelling, the film stands out as a distinctive and compelling piece of cinema.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Knightriders is a truly remarkable film that blends elements of fantasy, drama, and action into a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. With its captivating storyline, superb performances, and visually stunning sequences, this movie has left a lasting impact on audiences around the world. Whether you’re a fan of medieval tales or simply appreciate thought-provoking storytelling, Knightriders is definitely a must-watch film that will not disappoint.

FAQs

1. What is the plot of Knightriders?

Knightriders follows a group of modern-day knights who perform jousting tournaments on motorcycles. Their leader, King Billy, struggles to maintain the integrity of their code while dealing with personal and societal challenges.

2. Who directed Knightriders?

Knightriders was directed by George A. Romero, renowned for his work on groundbreaking horror films such as Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead.

3. When was Knightriders released?

Knightriders was released on April 10, 1981.

4. Who are the main cast members of Knightriders?

The film stars Ed Harris as Billy, the charismatic leader, and features a talented ensemble cast including Tom Savini, Gary Lahti, Patricia Tallman, and Amy Ingersoll.

5. Is Knightriders based on a true story?

No, Knightriders is a fictional film with a unique concept conceived by George A. Romero.

6. Where was Knightriders filmed?

The film was primarily shot in and around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

7. Did Knightriders receive critical acclaim?

While Knightriders may not have achieved widespread commercial success, it has gained a strong cult following over the years and received positive reviews from critics who appreciated its originality and thematic depth.

8. Can children watch Knightriders?

Knightriders is rated R and contains violence and some adult content, so it is recommended for mature audiences.

9. Is there any connection between Knightriders and King Arthur?

Knightriders incorporates elements of Arthurian legend and explores themes of honor, loyalty, and the pursuit of a higher purpose, similar to the stories of King Arthur and his knights.

10. Where can I watch Knightriders?

Knightriders is available for streaming on various platforms or can be purchased or rented on DVD or Blu-ray.