Watch Joey Dunlop: No Ordinary Joe

Joey Dunlop: No Ordinary Joe is a documentary film that was released in 2007. The movie is about the life of Joey Dunlop, the legendary motorcycle racer. The documentary features interviews with Dunlop's family, friends, and colleagues who share their memories and experiences of the sportsman who later became a national hero in Northern Ireland.

The movie starts with footage of Joey's early days in Ballymoney, Northern Ireland, where he was born in 1952. From an early age, he had a fascination with motorcycles, and that passion grew into a lifelong obsession. The movie then moves on to the start of his professional career, which began in the summer of 1976. The film follows Dunlop's successful racing career, which spanned over 25 years and included five TT Formula One World Championships.

The documentary doesn't just focus on Dunlop's racing career, though. It also delves into the man behind the champion. The film takes a deeper look at Joey's personal life, including his relationship with his wife Linda and his two children. Through interviews with Linda and his family members, we get an insight into the character of Dunlop outside of the racetrack.

Additionally, the film includes interviews with Dunlop's race team and fellow racers, including Eddie Laycock. They share their experiences and memories of the rider who made a significant impact on the racing industry. The documentary highlights some of Dunlop's most noteworthy moments, including his victories in the North West 200, the Isle of Man TT, and the Ulster Grand Prix.

No Ordinary Joe paints a picture of Joey Dunlop that is more significant than just a racing legend. It shows him to be an ordinary man who loved his family and his community. He was a man who lived for his passion for motorcycles and had a deep concern for the welfare of others. In the film, we see footage of Dunlop's charitable work, especially in his trips to Romania, where he delivered aid to orphans and the underprivileged.

The filmmaker, Stephen Watson, presents a balanced view of Dunlop's life, not shying away from his tragedies. The documentary covers his brother's death, Robert, and his accident at the 1982 North West 200. Still, it also shows Dunlop's incredible resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity.

Joey Dunlop: No Ordinary Joe is a must-watch for any fan of motorcycle racing or sports documentaries in general. It transports viewers back to a time when motorcycle racing was at its best and is a fitting tribute to one of the most remarkable racers that Northern Ireland has ever produced. With its well-curated archival footage, insightful interviews, and heartwarming storytelling, it is a film that captures the essence of Joey Dunlop perfectly.