First things first. Despite being a huge motor racing fan, I've never really shared the same affinity for two wheels as I do four. Having met a handful of riders from the worlds of Superbike and motocross, I've always appreciated their undoubted talents, but have not found myself drawn to motorbikes.
You could imagine my initial thoughts when offered the chance to review TT3D: Closer to the Edge. Having heard a bit about the documentary, most notably that it was guest voiced by Hollywood star Jared Leto, I thought I'd give it a go.
For the uninitiated, the Isle of Man TT is one of the most terrifying and dangerous races in the world. Spanning a fortnight across May/June, it's a carnival of speed, which sees some of the most talented riders in the world descend on the island to see who can navigate its tight and windy roads the quickest.
The moment the movie began, any reservations I had were instantly diminished. The opening sequence sees you zoom through the tight, residential roads, slinging past bus-stops and bombing around the countryside, idyllic scenery flashing by in a blur. From then on I was hooked.
Director Richard De Aragues' use of on-board footage and slow-motion cameras really takes you closer to the edge, closer than you could ever fathom. These stunning shots are used throughout and really help translate not only the ridiculous speeds the riders hit, but also the calculated risks they take.
However the film is not just an edge of your seat ride. The real excitement is achieved through the trials and tribulations of the documentary's true star, the unpredictable Guy Martin.
His charisma and wild-child appearance, including 1970s-esq mutton chop side-burns, make him instantly like-able and his volatile nature makes incredible viewing. While other riders appear cagey and unwilling to pour their emotions on screen, Guy represents a time lost, when sportsmen could be cult figures for their personalty as much as their ability.
Guy's unquestionable passion for motorbikes is almost infectious and while the film documents the build up to and fortnight of the TT event, it ultimately boils down to the journey of our Lancashire anti-hero.
Brilliantly shot and expertly crafted, TT3D: Closer to the Edge is a film which rivals 'Senna' in captivating an audience of petrolheads and non-racing fans alike.
Check out this clip of Guy Martin in his garage
