“TT3D: Closer to the Edge”, 2011
Director: Richard De Aragues
A compelling documentary that offers an immersive look into the Isle of Man TT motorcycle race, one of the most dangerous sporting events in the world. The film follows several racers, focusing on Guy Martin and Ian Hutchinson, providing insight into their lives and the risks they take.
Starring: Guy Martin, Ian Hutchinson, John McGuinness, Michael Dunlop, Keith Amor, Bruce Anstey, John Barton, Paul Dobbs, Cameron Donald, Ryan Farquhar;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: documentary, sport;
Duration: 104 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “TT3D: Closer to the Edge” on the website imdb.com
“On Any Sunday”, 1971
Director: Bruce Brown
Directed by Bruce Brown, this documentary is a classic in the motorcycle racing world. It explores various aspects of motorcycle racing and riding, from motocross to desert racing, and features notable racers from the era. The film is celebrated for its influential portrayal of motorcycling culture.
Starring: Bruce Brown, David Evans, John Forker, Mert Lawwill, Steve McQueen, Malcolm Smith, J.N. Roberts;
Production year: 1971;
Genre: documentary, sport;
MPAA rating: g;
Duration: 96 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
“Hitting the Apex”, 2015
Director: Mark Neale
Narrated by Brad Pitt, this documentary takes a look at the careers of six of the fastest MotoGP riders in the world, focusing on their battles on and off the track. The film offers insight into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of racers like Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez.
Starring: Brad Pitt, Jorge Lorenzo, Jose Manuel Lorenzo, Marc Marquez, Dani Pedrosa, Graziano Rossi, Valentino Rossi, Marco Simoncelli, Paolo Simoncelli, Casey Stoner;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: documentary, sport;
Duration: 138 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
More information about the film “Hitting the Apex” on the website imdb.com
“Torque”, 2003
Director: Joseph Kahn
While more of an action movie than a true racing film, “Torque” features motorcycle racing elements within its high-speed chases and over-the-top plot. It centers on biker Cary Ford, who finds himself framed by an old rival and biker gang leader for the murder of a brother of another biker gang.
Starring: Martin Henderson, Ice Cube, Monet Mazur, Adam Scott, Matt Schulze, Jay Hernandez, Will Yun Lee, Jaime Pressly, Max Beesley, Christina Milian;
Production year: 2003;
Genre: action, comedy, crime;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 84 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 4,1;
“Dust to Glory”, 2005
Director: Dana Brown
This documentary by Dana Brown covers the famous Baja 1000, the world's toughest off-road race. Though the race includes various vehicle types, motorcycles are a key focus, and the film captures the harsh realities and dangers faced by racers.
Starring: Mario Andretti, Sal Fish, James Garner, Robby Gordon, Billy Hammon, Ricky Johnson, Mike McCoy, Chad McQueen, Steve McQueen, J.N. Roberts, Jimmy N. Roberts, Rick Shuster, Lance Strumpf;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: documentary, action, adventure, sport;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 97 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Dust to Glory” on the website imdb.com
“Faster”, 2010
Director: George Tillman Jr.
A documentary that provides an inside look into the world of MotoGP racing, covering the 2001 and 2002 seasons. It showcases the intensity and danger of the sport, offering viewers up-close and personal experiences with the riders and their teams.
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Billy Bob Thornton, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Carla Gugino, Maggie Grace, Moon Bloodgood, Lester Speight, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Matt Gerald, Mike Epps;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: action, thriller, drama, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 94 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,4;
More information about the film “Faster” on the website imdb.com
These films, each in their unique way, capture the essence of motorcycle racing and the dedication of those who are passionate about this high-speed pursuit. Whether you're a fan of motorcycles, racing, or simply love engaging, adrenaline-fueled stories, these movies offer a glimpse into the captivating world of motorcycle racing.
The high-octane world of motorcycle racing has been a vivid tableau for filmmakers, offering audiences front-row seats to the adrenaline-filled, pavement-blurring spectacle that is moto racing. From the raw, gritty depictions of racer's lives in documentaries to the glorified, edge-of-your-seat dramatizations in fictional narratives, films about motorcycle racing capture the essence of the sport and its culture. They delve into the human spirit, showcasing not just the quest for speed but also the pursuit of dreams against all odds. The exhilarating rush of competition, the camaraderie among riders, and the tragic yet inspiring tales of ambition and resilience continue to captivate and entertain. As much as these films are a tribute to the sport itself, they are a celebration of the indomitable human spirit, proving once again that cinema has the power to take audiences on the most thrilling rides, even off the track.
