'Long Way Up' Review: McGregor, Boorman and their badass e-Harleys take viewers on a breathtaking journey
'Long Way Round' and 'Long Way Down' were staple shows for motorcycle journey enthusiasts as they religiously tuned in to watch these shows for the grueling, yet satisfying trips across the word. Ewan McGregor and Charles Boorman are back this time for another challenging ride with 'Long Way Up' by Apple TV+. They might not be getting any younger, but the spirit of riding is far from done. There's enough nostalgia, some new tech that paves the way for the future of motorcycles, rugged terrains and infectious positive attitudes that make the series worth the watch.
Much of the season opener, titled 'Preparation', is a valuable insight on the meticulous planning that goes in to make this ride come to life. The idea is to ride from Patagonia in Argentina through South America and North America to California in the United States. And to make the challenge a lot tougher, the duo decides to do it on electric bikes. Now, this is a new direction for the series and this is the second time in the year the focus has been on electric vehicles after 'And We Go Green'.
This follow-up series of 'Long Way Down' marks the toughest ever ride the duo has done — 13000 miles over 100 days on electric bikes makes it hard to imagine. They reunite with longtime collaborators, directors David Alexanian and Russ Malkin, and that brings back fond memories. The challenges are documented eight months ahead of the plan. Harley Davidson and Rivian trucks have the odds stacked against them to manufacture durable bikes and trucks (which is electric by the way).
'Long Way Up' with Apple TV will surely see at least a couple more seasons, assuming McGregor and Boorman are up for it. The series has evolved beautifully since 2004 and 16 years later, the addition of futuristic technology makes it hard to be ignored. For those who haven't watched the predecessor series or know little or nothing about the history of the show don't have to necessarily rewatch the old shows as this one covers up with some history that summarizes the previous shows in crisp fashion.
In times where rides like these end up as nothing more than wishful thinking, it is still refreshing to sit back and watch two celebrities making an arduous journey and attempting to work around the many obstacles that come their way. The takeaways are simple, no amount of planning can predict how nature operates and no modern tech can withstand its challenges at some point.
That said, the reality motorcycle shows always bring with them a generous dose of enjoyment and 'Long Way Up' is no different. Breathtaking views, badass bikes, even badass trucks, and two seasoned and delightful riders make this an adventure worth watching.
'Long Way Up' will have its global premiere on September 18 on the Apple TV+.