THE new 3D film about the TT pulls no punches in its depiction of the event, writes John Gregory of isleofman.com
TT3D: Closer to the Edge had its Isle of Man premiere last night (Monday) at the Palace Cinema in Douglas.
I had heard different reports about the film - some saying it was fantastic and some believing it dwelled too much on injuries and deaths - but I kept an open mind.
The first thing that is apparent is that the 3D footage is amazing. There are no bikes coming out of the screen - it is just the fact the picture is so enhanced by this technology. The opening of the film, showing some of the leading riders lining up on Glencrutchery Road, really set the scene.
And then an onboard camera took the audience on a thrill-ride down Bray Hill which was fantastic.
We were soon introduced to the stars which include top riders John McGuinness, Ian Hutchinson, Conor Cummins and, most notably, Guy Martin.
In many ways this is Guy's film. It covers his build up to the 2010 event and the dramas during race fortnight - including his big crash during the Senior.
The film crew did a tremendous job at capturing the ups and downs of Guy's TT journey.
Fans and riders both give an insight into what makes the TT one of the greatest sporting events in the world.
The film does not shy away from the danger and some of the crash footage may make some of the more sensitive members of the audience shudder.
The TT is a dangerous event and everyone involved with it knows the risks. But it's also one of the reasons why many of the riders wish to compete in it in the first place.
Short circuit riding must seem dull in comparison to the thrill of riding on closed roads on a near 40 mile course through towns, villages and even on a mountain.
And, as the film shows too, even riding on short circuits is certainly not without risk.
I thought some of the racing and practice footage was thrilling and really gave a decent representation of the drama and atmosphere of the TT.
I was disappointed, however, that more was not made of Ian Hutchinson's five wins out of five races - something which has never been achieved before.
Instead there was more focus on Conor and Guy's crashes in the Senior. Those accidents did define the high drama of TT 2010 but Hutchy's unique and brilliant achievement certainly showed the risk and preparation that is associated with the TT is worth it.
Perhaps my favourite element of this film was the great contribution of Bridget Dobbs.
Bridget's husband Paul was one of two people who died during last year's races.
The film crew followed her home to New Zealand and the way she spoke about living life to the full was an absolute inspiration.
Along with a number of riders she was in attendance at the premiere.
I recall my dad's reaction when he first saw the TT from Bray Hill. "They all deserve medals," he said.
He is, of course, right. Every rider who finishes a race has completed the motorcycle racing equivalent of climbing Everest.
However, as Bridget shows, you don't have to be a TT competitor to be a hero.
TT3D Closer to the Edge goes on general cinema release this Friday at the Broadway Cinema in the Villa Marina. It will provoke lots of discussion among TT fans but it certainly stays with you long after it ends.
All photos by John Gregory
