I know to a lot of people out there this movie is boring, cheesy, and makes almost no sense at all. However, there are a few facts that need to be stated that may shed some light on the film. First, when Rad came out in theaters (yes, you heard right, theaters), BMX was at the most popular point of its short history. The sport was literally everywhere. Next, professional BMX racers from this era were actually used in the stunts, and, more importantly, in the helltrack race. Lastly, a man named Yose Yanez did the back flip stunts in this movie. This may seem insignificant, but at the time he was the only person on our planet who had done this. Looking back, this is especially amusing to me, since I have several friends who perform this feat on a daily basis. My point is, if nothing else, Rad helped BMX by making kids out there wonder just what was possible on these 20" bicycles.
Having said all of that, yes, Rad is a cheesy film of B-Movie quality, has an unlikely plot, and will likely never be of any value to someone outside the world of BMX. But for those of us who are, this movie is bigger than a plot or good writing. In fact, Rad is the whole reason I started riding bikes nine years ago. Trust me I'm not alone when I say that. Maybe ESPN should be paying royalties to the director...
Having said all of that, yes, Rad is a cheesy film of B-Movie quality, has an unlikely plot, and will likely never be of any value to someone outside the world of BMX. But for those of us who are, this movie is bigger than a plot or good writing. In fact, Rad is the whole reason I started riding bikes nine years ago. Trust me I'm not alone when I say that. Maybe ESPN should be paying royalties to the director...