Go Grandriders

Go Grandriders is a heartwarming and inspiring Taiwanese documentary released in 2012. Directed by Hua Tien-hau, this poignant film does an exceptional job at shifting the narrative surrounding the elderly and their enthusiasm for life.

Set in Taiwan, the movie revolves around a troupe of seventeen octogenarians and a handful of seventy-somethings who set out on an unprecedented road trip. This collective, named the Grandriders, embarks on a 13-day, 1177 kilometer bike journey around the island of Taiwan. Challenging age and societal expectations, the movie unpacks various themes, including the undying spirit of adventure, resilience, and camaraderie.

Go Grandriders commences by introducing us to the enthusiastic aged bike riders along with their respective backstories. We meet individuals like 96-year-old Grandpa Tie, a former businessman who hid his participation from his family due to his failing physical health, and 82-year-old Grandma Zhen, the only woman in the entire troupe, among other resilient riders. Director Hua Tien-hau smartly adds a layer of emotional depth through personal anecdotes and immersive home videos.

As the Grandriders start their journey, the viewers are taken through the scenic landscapes of Taiwan, from bustling city roads to tranquil country tracks. The riders seize life with both hands, undeterred by mountainous terrains, heavy downpours, or treacherous traffic, displaying their infectious enthusiasm and zest for life. Despite their various physical ailments - from heart diseases to cancers - the Grandriders prove that age truly is just a number when it comes to chasing one's passion.

The film does not shy away from showcasing their fears and realities either. We see Grandriders collapsing from exhaustion, we feel their fear while navigating rough roadways, we share their apprehension when health issues threaten their expedition. Go Grandriders highlights both the vulnerabilities and strengths of its subjects, presenting them as real people with ambitions, dreams, and fears, unlike the stereotypical elderly figures in many films.

One of the unique aspects of Go Grandriders is the way it portrays the society around these Grandriders. The locals, particularly the younger generation, initially display a mixed reaction to the aged travellers - surprise, amusement, skepticism, concern. But soon they're moved by the Grandriders' tenacity and spirit and offer warmth and support, reinforcing the theme of intergenerational connection.

The film also underlines the essence of camaraderie that exists among the members of this unique club. Bonds strengthen over shared stories, laughters, and even tears. The Grandriders look out for each other, cheer each other on, share meals together, and even sing karaoke, creating a sense of surrogate family on the road. The film emphasizes the sense of community, corroborating the fact that human connections can be formed and cherished irrespective of age.

Go Grandriders is not a tale of mere biking or a travel catalog but rather a candid approach to understanding the vitality of enduring human spirit. After all, it is not merely about the destination, but the journey itself. Through intimate interviews and informal conversations, the film explores each individual's motivations for undertaking this road trip. For some, it’s about recapturing their youth, for others, merely straying from the ordinary, but all agree upon a simple truth - they just want to enjoy life to the fullest.

The technical aspects of the film are noteworthy as well. The cinematography captures the natural beauty of Taiwan beautifully, merging it perfectly with the riders' journey, creating a visually aesthetic documentary. Combined with the nostalgic score, the film manages to tug at the heartstrings of its viewers, creating an immersive experience.

Go Grandriders is an emotionally enriching film that celebrates life, age, love, and dreams. It’s a reminder that you're never too old to embark on an adventure or cultivate new friendships. This deeply moving documentary will surely plunge you into a whirlwind of emotions and leave you cheered, with a fresh outlook on age and life. A true testament to the power of optimism and companionship, Go Grandriders gives you a sense of appreciation for the simple joys of life and the undying spirit of human resilience. The film showcases life in its most raw and beautiful form, urging viewers to embrace age as just a number and life as an ongoing adventure.