The Vintagent Classics: Harley Davidson And The Marlboro Man

HARLEY DAVIDSON AND THE MARLBORO MAN (1991)

Run Time: 1:38:00
Producer: MGM
Director: Simon Wincer
Writer: Don Michael Paul
Key Cast: Mickey Rourke, Don Johnson, Chelsea Field

FILM MAKERS

Who says there are no more heroes?

Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man is a Neo-Western set in the near future of 1996, starring Mickey Rourke and Don Johnson. The film was a critical and financial failure, grossing only $7 million at the box office, with a budget of $23 million. In numerous interviews, Mickey Rourke has said that he signed on purely for financial reasons, after Bruse Willis turned down the roll. The film he said, made him feel “like a sell-out” and fueled his descent into self-loathing.

Decades later, the film has found a cult following for it’s portrayal of archetypal American symbols of rebellion and masculinity, represented by the titular characters “Harley Davidson” (a biker) and “the Marlboro Man” (a cowboy), two rugged individuals fighting against corporate power, while simultaneously critiquing the superficiality and potentially dangerous connotations of such idealized identities. A theme perhaps more socially relevant to audiences today.

Rumors are circulating online of a 2025 reboot directed by David Leitch and starring Tom Hardy and Jason Mamoa, though no official or credible confirmation exists. It’s just wishful/wistful dreaming with a flashy poster… for now.