Pedal-Powered Revolution | Anthem Magazine | Matthew Newton

Urban bicycle culture has exploded over the past decade. Fueled by the concerns of environmentally-conscious cyclists as well as a steadfast and passionate movement of bicycle messengers—considered the diehards in the trenches each day—urban bicycle culture has evolved into something of a grown-up and established affair. Telltale signs of the movement’s maturation can be seen in the success of forward-thinking events like the Bicycle Film Festival, which features films (obviously), music, art, and spirited discussion—each aspect an integral part of preserving and celebrating the culture.

Founder Brendt Barbur, a New York bicyclist, concocted the idea for the festival after being involved in a debilitating bicycle versus automobile accident that left him with a sprained neck, dislocated shoulder, broken jaw, and torn meniscus in his knee.

“Needless to say, this was not fun,” Barbur says, recalling the accident. “I had time while I was laid up in bed to think and sit with some anger about the situation. I wanted to do something for biking and cyclists.”

After considering several courses of action, including lobbying with politicians for more expansive bicyclists’ rights, Barbur chose a different, more active route.

“I started the Bicycle Film Festival as a celebration of this rich culture,” he says. “After the initial support from Anthology Film Archives and Jonas Mekas, we had sold out shows our first year and have not stopped since.”

Now in its fifth year, the Bicycle Film Festival has grown exponentially, attracting larger crowds and well-known artists, bands, and up-and-coming filmmakers. During the festival’s San Francisco stop, attendees enjoyed musical performances by Gang Gang Dance and Tussle, an art exhibit boasting such respected names as Thomas Campbell, Rickey Powell, Swoon, and Eric Zo (a legendary figure among bike messengers), and films like Joe Kid On A Stingray: The History Of BMX (2005) and the cult classic A Sunday In Hell (1973).

“One of the best compliments the festival has ever been given was from a New York [bike] messenger,” Barbur says. “He came up to me, thanked me, and said that he had one of the best times of his life at the film festival and wanted to bring his Mother next year. He wanted to show her what he was into. I hope that others have a good time [too]. What more can you ask for in life than good times?”

The Bicycle Film Festival is an extension of Barbur’s lifelong love affair with cycling. As the festival grows, so too does awareness of bicycling as a legitimate (not to mention, healthy) movement. However, don’t be entirely fooled, for Barbur, fun is still an important part of the equation.

“Almost every time I get on my bike it gives me that same feeling I had when I first rode as a kid, growing up in California,” Barbur says. “It was freedom. I was on my own. My imagination went wild when I was riding. I was flying. I still fly on my bike.”