After the high-octane thrills of Senna earlier this year it’s hard to imagine another docco that could outclass it – yet that is exactly what you get with TT3D: Closer To The Edge. I’ve always been critical of the use of 3D technology in modern film but this is one docco where it enhances the footage and really makes the audience feel part of the subject matter.
The subject matter at hand just happens to be one of the most dangerous motorcycle races in the world. The Isle Of Man Tourist Trophy is an annual motorcycle race that really does test the nerves and skills of some of the world’s most talented motorcyclists. Year after year challengers travel to The Isle Of Man for this race and each year there are serious crashes that do frequently end in tragedy with death a certain possibility. TT3D: Closer To The Edge follows the race of several riders but mainly focuses on Guy Martin, an outlandish rider who is determined to win his first TT Winner’s Trophy. It goes behind the scenes are really explores why a man like Martin puts his life on the line year-after-year for the privilege to hold a trophy aloft.
Many laughed when the film’s director, Richard De Aragues (mainly known for filming commercials) said he wanted to film TT3D: Closer To The Edge in 3D, but he certainly had the last laugh because it is the 3D shots in this film that make it so special. You first realise just how good it is when a rider’s helmet takes you on a 3D lap of the circuit and you literally feel like you are there holding on for dear life. As far as the rest of the film goes it doesn’t matter whether it is footage of a confronting crash or just the picturesque views of the Isle Of Man, everything is enhanced in 3D.
De Aragues must have also been licking his lips when he first met Guy Martin. Martin is the perfect subject for a docco like this. He’s not your flashy playboy motorcyclist like the Valentino Rossi’s of this world, Martin is the the boy-next-door kind of guy that you have a laugh and a beer with at the pub. His sense of humour makes him interesting and his determination to win at all costs makes you have a deep respect for him. The key to this docco is the fact that the audience cares what happens to Martin. Not only do you want him to win but with when the crashes (and unfortunate deaths) start coming you find yourself really hoping that he gets through unscathed.
While TT3D: Closer To The Edge is a must see for anyone that has a love of motorbikes or motor sport it can also easily be embraced by those who know nothing about either. Visually spectacular and with the perfect subject TT3D: Closer To The Edge is one of the best doccos you will see this year.
Year: 2011
Director: Richard De Aragues
Stars: Guy Martin
Classification: TBC
Runtime: 104 mins
Rating: 
Out on DVD/Blu-Ray 14th March, 2012