Biker Women

A fresh take on the outlaw spirit, focusing on a road trip by four motorcyclists who forge deep friendships over nearly 3,000 miles. Zeros in on four California women who get to know one another while traveling to and from Sturgis, South Dakota, for the world’s largest biker gathering, an annual event since 1938. The rally is a heady brew of races, partying, and exhibitionism under the Great Plains sun. The central quartet have come to Sturgis not merely to revel but to work: Among them are two journalists (Cris Sommer-Simmons, cofounder-founder of Harley Women magazine; and Jamie Elvidge, who specializes in test-riding bikes), a singer-songwriter (Gevin Fax) and a photographer (Gail DeMarco). Combines footage of the women’s trip and post-travel interviews.

Directed by Victoria Samuels, Biker Women leans on a strong ensemble — Gevin Fax, Gail DeMarco, Jamie Elvidge — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1996.