Long Way Down, destination Capetown, was their second movie trip. That trip seemed to have a more predefined schedule, more sponsor requirements and a greater rider support presence than the first film, Long Way 'Round.
I remember reading a recent quote from the main cameraman, Claudio von Planta. When asked what could have made the trip and film better, he suggested that if he, Charley and Ewan had been left alone more, the documented experiences would likely have been more natural.
"... I would lobby to keep Ewan and Charley as much on their own as possible. Touching base with the production team can be fun and reassuring but it takes the edge of the adventure. Seeing Ewan and Charley solving problems on their own would always be more interesting than relying on the production backup team.
Both films were produced before GoPro cameras were available too, so custom device rigs with recording and powering methods had to be devised. That complicated the video side of things and necessitated the regular visits from the production team in their 4WD's.
Long Way 'Round is the better of the two films.
I wouldn't trust my K75 for off-road riding, but I would not hesitate to spend a few months travelling paved roads anywhere. It's not like K75 replacement parts are hard to find.
