Rent Breaking Away (1979)

Pedalling Nowhere Fast - Breaking Away review by griggs

Four small-town friends idle by a disused quarry, wondering what comes after adolescence and uncertainty. Dennis Christopher finds his answer in an unlikely place — Italian-style bicycle racing, adopting the accent, the swagger, and the delusion, to the bafflement of his dad, played with gruff charm by Paul Dooley, a former quarry worker.

Loosely inspired by real events and written by Steve Tesich, Breaking Away is less about bikes and more about growing pains. It captures that post-graduation drift, when dreams wobble and the real world starts pedalling faster than you can keep up. The humour is gentle, the emotion honest, and the dialogue natural enough to feel real.

Still, the film’s easy charm occasionally flattens into Sunday-afternoon sentiment. It coasts more than it sprints, and while the ride is pleasant, it rarely feels urgent. A nice tailwind of sincerity — just not quite the rush it promises.

Just about a comedy - Breaking Away review by CM

Not a comedy stuffed with gags, this is a charming coming of age comedy/drama which showcases Bloomington, Indiana - the scenes in & around one town give an impression of authenticity. Growing up in changing times, family, friendships, aspirations, & romance are all handled with a sweet touch which avoids gooey sentiment.