Review: Get revved up for Indy Saini’s ‘Women in the Front Seat’

WOMEN IN THE FRONT SEAT

Filmmaker Indy Saini seeks out like-minded female motorcycle riders across the country. Women of all ages, races, and backgrounds share their reasons for the ride. This unexpected film overflows with depth and heart.

We meet riders and their bikes. Each possesses a unique personality. I loved discovering what each woman packs and what they consider road essentials. The attention to detail fascinates me but does not surprise me. Women are responsible for an incalculable amount of invisible labor. We have to keep track of so much information all the time.

Saini interweaves her family history into her search. She films herself on long solo journeys from interview to interview and in the back of a pickup truck.

Every subject speaks to their fear of their first ride. You never hear men share those sentiments. The misogyny is pervasive. They thrive on breaking gender stereotypes, many inspired by the pushback they received from their mothers. “You can’t do this” became a rallying cry. Mack explains that she never asks for permission.

These women are genuinely fearless and incredibly generous. Many groups attach charity to their rides. Many have been in life-threatening accidents and got tight back on a bike. These women thrive in a community. Their clear communication creates a sense of safety and care for each other.

The film is a quiet reclamation of power through motorcycles. It is a perfect metaphor for the everyday challenges and celebrations of womanhood. Women in the Front Seat is an unapologetic, fierce, hell yeah of a doc. Take the ride.



Indy Saini’s WOMEN IN THE FRONT SEAT
now streaming on Amazon


Director/Writer: Indy Saini
Producers: Indy Saini, R.K. Janmeja Singh
Editor: Esther Shubinski
Cinematographer: Indy Saini
Music: Catherine Joy
TRT: 74 min
Country: USA