Easy Rider

Dennis Hopper’s counterculture classic is as pertinent today as it was back in 1969, with its scathing depiction of a country at war with itself. Upon first release, it sent shockwaves through the Hollywood establishment, ushering in a new generation of cynical, politically motivated filmmakers who were disillusioned by a torrent of civil rights abuses and disastrous foreign policies. Accompanied by a groundbreaking soundtrack, Hopper and Peter Fonda immortalised themselves as a pair of free-spirited bikers, who set out cross country to attend Mardi Gras in New Orleans, but amidst the incredible natural beauty, they find only prejudice, bigotry and violence.

Cannes Film Festival: Best First Work

18/5 (Sat): Film talk with Derek Lam