Bikes vs Cars (2015)

"Bikes vs Cars" (2015) is a riveting exploration of the escalating divide between the cycling community and the automobile culture. Set against the sprawling, automobile-dominated landscapes of cities like São Paulo and Los Angeles, the film delves into the personal and political nuances of cycling advocacy. Once pedestrian-friendly, these cities have been irrevocably transformed by the relentless push of automobile and oil lobbies, turning the simple act of cycling into a daring act of defiance. The film presents a stark contrast with Copenhagen, a beacon of cycling-centric urban development. Yet even here, challenges persist. We witness the struggles of a taxi driver, constantly navigating through the ceaseless tide of cyclists, a testament to the intricate dance between wheels and footfalls on the city's streets. "Bikes vs Cars" also reveals the darker side of this global shift towards cycling, as it captures the political battle waged against cyclists in Toronto following the election of Mayor Rob Ford. This gripping account serves as a chilling reminder of the fierce resistance faced by those promoting sustainable transportation. The film is not just about bikes and cars, it is a call to arms. Emphasizing the urgency of addressing global crises such as climate change and unsustainable consumption of earth's resources, it presents the humble bicycle as a powerful tool for change. Amidst the cacophonic symphony of traffic and the smoggy haze of pollution, we meet activists and thinkers who refuse to be silenced or sidelined. These are the heroes waging a tireless war against entrenched interests that spend billions to safeguard the reign of the private car. "Bikes vs Cars" is a compelling journey into the heart of a global struggle, a poignant tale of resilience and resistance set on the world's streets. It echoes with a question we all must confront: What kind of cities do we want to inhabit? The answer may lie in the simple turn of a bicycle wheel.

Bikes vs Cars is a documentary movie featuring Aline Cavalcante and directed by Fredrik Gertten.

Bikes vs Cars is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Hoopla and OVID.

It is also possible to buy Bikes vs Cars on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Kino Now, Vudu and YouTube.