Colin Seeley - The Film

INTRODUCTION

I invite you to join me on an extraordinary cinematic voyage as we delve into the life and accomplishments of a true visionary, Colin Seeley; An Engineer, Racer and my Grandfather.

In the heart of every great story lies the captivating journey of an individual who leaves an indelible mark on the world, Colin Seeley; The Engineer and the Racer. For those who don't know, Colin Seeley was more than just a name in the motorcycle world; he was a beloved Husband, Father and Grandpa. A brilliant engineer and visionary bike builder, he wove his magic with iconic brands like Honda and Suzuki, leaving an enduring impact on the industry. The thrill of the racetracks ran through his veins, and he fearlessly competed in motorcycle sidecar racing, achieving great heights in both British and World Championships.

To me and my family, my Grandad was not just a historical figure; he was a gentle soul who brought so much joy and wisdom into our lives. My childhood memories are filled with his stories, his laughter, and the warmth of his presence. Through this documentary, I want to dig deep into the heart of who he truly was – the dreams he nurtured, the challenges he faced, and the profound influence he had on all of us.

As I tread the path of documenting my Grandpa's extraordinary life, I am driven by a deeper purpose; I want the world to see the man behind the legend, to witness the passion and dedication that fueled his every endeavour but also this journey is more than just reminiscing; it's about preserving his legacy and the legacy of his peers for generations to come.

WHAT MAKES THIS STORY UNIQUE?

This is a film about Colin Seeley, written and directed by his grandson Sammy Seeley. But I have a few aces up my sleeve that make my approach as his grandson a little more unique. Before his passing, my grandfather left me a treasure trove of memories in the form of over 30 years' worth of super 8mm and 16mm footage. These reels capture the unseen moments of his racing triumphs, the tireless work he put into his craft, and the beautiful tapestry of his life. In the days leading up to his funeral, I undertook the painstaking process of converting this invaluable footage into a digital format, curating the highlights to share with our loved ones as a final gift to honour his memory.

Little did I know that this labour of love would become the foundation for a film that aims to encapsulate Colin Seeley's extraordinary journey. As his memory began to fade due to the challenges of dementia, I took the opportunity to sit down with him and record his recollections.

Even during his struggles, his passion for racing and the intricate details of his experiences shone through, leaving me both astonished and deeply moved.

WHO AM I?

Allow me to introduce myself – I'm Sammy Seeley, and I stand as one of Colin Seeley's grandsons, I'd like to take a moment to share a bit about my own journey and how the echoes of my grandfather's approach to life have shaped my own path, leading me to this pivotal moment.

My grandad's spirit has been a guiding force in my life, quietly influencing me in ways I didn't even realize until later. With an inherent fascination for film from a young age, it took me by surprise when I diverted from a destined path to embark on an entirely different adventure – joining the Royal Marine Commandos at just 19 years old. With over a decade in the service with some extreme highs and drastic lows my journey there became a chapter deeply intertwined with discipline, courage, and unexpected turns.

As the years passed, the gravitational pull of my first love, film, became undeniable. When I picked up the camera again, it felt like a reunion with an old friend – an old friend that soon became an obsession. With my service chapter behind me, I found myself embracing the art of storytelling through the lens as a Director of Photography. My path led me from Royal Navy TV adverts to crafting short films, feature films, TV series, commercials, and documentaries.

In the past twelve months, my cinematic journey has taken a motorsport turn – a calling that brings me here today. I now find myself poised and ready to tackle a monumental endeavor – telling the story of none other than Colin Seeley, my grandad.

I wish to encapsulate the legacy that flows through my veins, celebrating not just a racing icon but the essence of a man who lived life by his own rules. A man who dared to dream and dared to innovate. A man whose spirit, unbeknownst to me at the time, helped guide my steps toward this very pursuit.

Together with your support, I aim to weave the threads of Colin's journey into a tapestry of cinema that captures the highs, the lows, and the unbridled spirit that powered him.

NARRATIVE PILLARS

Allow me to paint for you the canvas of an extraordinary film project – one that captures the essence of a life lived at full throttle. It's with immense excitement that I present the three intertwined narratives that form the heart of this cinematic journey.

1. Unveiling a Life's Odyssey: We embark on a journey that mirrors the twists and turns of the racetrack – a narrative that traverses the highs that touch the sky, the lows that test the soul, and all the uncharted territories that lie in between. This segment of the film is a tapestry woven with the threads of my grandad's life and racing career. It's a tale that pulsates with passion, echoes with triumphs, and whispers of the struggles that shaped him into the racing legend we celebrate today.

2. The Resurrection of a Dream: Imagine a symphony composed of motorcycle engines, the clinks of metal, and the echoes of ingenuity. In this narrative, we're diving into the heart of what made Colin Seeley an icon – his innovation and craftsmanship. With a nod to his legacy, we're embarking on the audacious endeavour of recreating a Seeley G50, injecting modern twists while preserving the very methods and techniques that he held dear. We're learning from the best in the industry, as their guidance helps us birth a masterpiece that carries his spirit. But here's the exciting twist – this reimagined G50 will be up for grabs, an will become an embodiment of the spirit of community that fueled this film. All who supported us will have a chance to own a piece of history on two wheels. And as the wheels turn, so does a cycle of kindness – all proceeds will be dedicated to the Joan Seeley Memorial Trust Fund, the very charity founded by Colin, leaving an indelible mark on lives beyond the racetrack.

https://joanseeleytrust.co.uk/

3. The Sanctum of Legends: Imagine a haven where memories reside, a sanctuary where echoes of racing prowess and the legacy of an icon resonate. In this narrative, we gather the fragments that tell Colin's story – photographs, video reels, bike parts, gear, and every cherished piece that defined his journey. This central "bat cave," a man cave of unparalleled significance, becomes a living testament to his legacy. It's a space that opens its doors to all those who stood by us, a hub of homage that bridges the past and the present. As the final act of the film unfolds, this space becomes a sanctuary of remembrance, a celebration of a life that roared louder than engines.

Together, we hold the keys to unlock these narratives and immortalize Colin Seeley's legacy on screen. Your contribution is more than a mere donation; it's an invitation to be a part of history, to be woven into the very fabric of this monumental tale. As you join us in this venture, you're becoming a pillar of support that propels our pursuit of passion, innovation, and community.

WHY GO FUND ME?

A monumental endeavour lies before us – crafting this wealth of moments into a film that doesn't just document, but immerses. It's a film that unleashes Colin's legacy in all its unfiltered glory. So, when I pondered how to finance this venture, I looked into the eyes of my grandfather and asked, "What would you do?"

He wouldn't seek refuge in the conventional. No. He'd embrace the spirit of innovation, break barriers, and ride the road less travelled. And that's precisely what we're doing. We're reaching out to our fellow enthusiasts, to the community that shares our love for Motorsport and the thrill of the open road.

I firmly believe that this documentary deserves to be funded by the people, for the people. With your support, we can sidestep the restrictions of studios and create a film that mirrors my grandad's unconventional life. Together, we'll have the creative freedom to tell his story in a way that resonates deeply, without compromise.

Our hero, Colin, wasn't bound by rules or red tape. His life was a canvas he painted boldly, unconfined by the ordinary. And so, as we embark on this journey, let's take a page from his playbook. Let's let the Motorsport and Biker community come together to fund a documentary that's as bold, as daring, and as extraordinary as the man it's dedicated to.

Join hands with us in this adventure. Your contribution, big or small, is pivotal in weaving together this tapestry of history, passion, and audacity. Let's honour the unconventional spirit of Colin Seeley, one of racing's true mavericks.

REWARD TIERS

We stand on the precipice of crafting something truly exceptional, and we're inviting you to join us in this remarkable journey. Our film, a tribute to Colin's life and spirit, needs your support to roar to life. To express our heartfelt gratitude, we've curated a series of tiered pledges, each with its own unique rewards, a token of our appreciation for your role in bringing this legacy to the world.

Pledge: £1 - £50 Your name will be etched into the heart of the film, immortalized in the credits as a valued supporter. But that's not all – as a gesture of thanks, we're extending an online copy of the film, allowing you to relive every moment of this cinematic journey whenever you desire.

Pledge: £51 and Beyond

You're not just a supporter; you're an integral part of our endeavor. Your generosity deserves to be celebrated on the big screen. In the final acts of the film, we're gathering a community that made this dream possible. And you will shine among them. We'll include you in the crowd shots, ensuring your presence becomes an indelible part of the film's legacy. Moreover, you'll be given a special spotlight – a video portrait featured within the film itself, a true testament to your contribution. Plus, a pledge over £51 automatically guarantees your invitation to this spectacular event.

These tiers are our humble way of saying thank you – a token of appreciation for your support that's etched into the very fabric of the film. Your backing isn't just a pledge; it's a vote of confidence in this endeavor, an endorsement of Colin Seeley's legacy, and a mark of your place in this incredible journey.

GET IN TOUCH

We want to hear your thoughts, your ideas, and your perspective. Your unique viewpoint can add depth and richness to the film. Whether you're a racing enthusiast, a storyteller, or someone who simply resonates with Colin's spirit, your voice matters. We believe in the power of collaboration, and we'd love to hear your insights on what you believe should be included in the film. Whether it's a particular anecdote, a facet of Colin's life that resonates with you, or a theme you feel deserves exploration, your input will help shape a narrative that's rich, nuanced, and reflective of Colin's legacy.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to us with your thoughts, questions, or suggestions. You can contact us directly at [email redacted]. We're eager to engage in conversations that inspire.