Fredrik Gertten/ 2015/ 88 min/ Transportation
Film Description: Bikes vs Cars directed by Fredrik Gertten, is a compelling documentary that delves into a pressing global issue: the environmental and societal impacts of our dependency on cars. This film provides a stark portrayal of the crises associated with automobile culture, including climate change, resource depletion, and the overwhelming congestion that plagues urban landscapes. The documentary argues that our cities are increasingly dominated by cars, leading to a chaotic, polluted, and noisy environment that is far from sustainable.
At the heart of "Bikes vs Cars" is the notion that the humble bicycle represents a viable and transformative solution to these issues. The film highlights the significant opposition faced by cycling advocates from powerful interests entrenched in the automobile industry. These entities invest billions annually in lobbying and advertising to maintain their dominance and discourage the shift towards more sustainable modes of transportation.
Through a series of engaging interviews and real-life examples, Gertten introduces viewers to activists, urban planners, and everyday individuals who are pushing for a change. Despite the rising number of cyclists killed or injured in traffic, these dedicated advocates refuse to be deterred. Their resilience and commitment underscore the central theme of the film: the bicycle as a tool for social and environmental change.
In 2013, "Bikes vs Cars" garnered substantial support through a Kickstarter campaign, raising over $90,000 from more than 2,000 backers. This grassroots backing reflects the widespread public interest and concern regarding the issues presented in the film.
Director Bio: Fredrik Gertten, the visionary behind "Bikes vs Cars," is a renowned Swedish director and journalist with a distinguished career in documentary filmmaking. His body of work includes critically acclaimed films such as "Big Boys Gone Bananas!" (2012) and "BANANAS!" (2009), both of which have been showcased in over 80 countries and featured at prestigious film festivals including Sundance, Berlinale, Hot Docs, Toronto, IDFA, Melbourne IFF, Sao Paulo IFF, and Sheffield.
Gertten’s impact extends beyond filmmaking. His documentaries have influenced public perception and policy, notably contributing to a significant increase in the sale of fair-trade bananas in Sweden. This success underscores his ability to connect local issues with global audiences and drive meaningful change through his work.
In 1994, Fredrik founded WG Film, a production company known for its focus on local stories with a global perspective. Prior to this, he had an extensive career as a foreign correspondent and columnist, covering regions such as Africa, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. Today, Gertten continues to balance his roles as a filmmaker and creative producer, crafting narratives that explore identity and transformation within his own hometown and beyond.
Directors Note: Born in a city where the bike is the natural choice for going from one place to another, I’ve travelled the world wondering why there are so few bicycles. Now, the car model as we know it has reached an extreme level with constant gridlock and millions of productive hours lost. Frustration is growing and cities need to look into new models.
The new urban biking is pushing this development. It’s a growing movement, which I’ve now seen around the world. People who simply put a sign on their bike saying “ONE LESS CAR.” A Do-It-Yourself attitude towards a global crisis.
It’s a positive message. If all cities adopted the model of Copenhagen, where forty percent commute within the city on bikes, it would be a radical change for the world. Something you can measure in health, pollution, oil usage.
And now the conflict. The car industry is in the center of our economic system. For the car owners and commuters that have become so invested in their lifestyle, it will be painful to change. It’s a conflict that interests me, and that is why I’ve decided to take on this project. A project of passion.
Fredrik Gertten