Branded Studios' Next Big Project: "Ferrari's Lost Driver: The Alfonso de Portago Story"

Branded Studios has always strived to create exciting, interesting content, and the latest project, "Ferrari's Lost Driver: The Alfonso de Portago Story," is no exception. This film, written, produced, and directed by Charlotte Fantelli, promises to be an enthralling journey into the life of a racing legend whose story has largely been forgotten. Set to be released soon, this documentary will shine a light on the fascinating life and tragic end of Alfonso de Portago, an iconic figure in the world of motorsport.

Will Buxton driving the AC Ace

The Story: Unveiling a Forgotten Legend

"Ferrari's Lost Driver" delves into the life of Alfonso de Portago, a remarkable racing driver who met a tragic end during the Mille Miglia in 1957. De Portago's story is one of passion, adventure, and the relentless pursuit of speed. Despite his significant achievements, his legacy has been overshadowed by the circumstances of his death.

The film follows renowned Formula One commentator Will Buxton as he embarks on a personal journey to uncover the life and legacy of de Portago. Buxton's quest takes him across the UK and Italy, where he meets with those who knew de Portago best. Through these encounters, Buxton pieces together the story of a man who lived life at full throttle, both on and off the track.

The Journey: A Cinematic Exploration

Will Buxton's exploration is at the heart of "Ferrari's Lost Driver." His journey through the UK and Italy is not just a geographical one but an emotional and historical quest to understand who Alfonso de Portago was. Buxton visits key locations that were significant in de Portago's life, from his birthplace to the places where he raced and the site that marked his tragic end.

Key Highlights of the Journey:

• Interviews with Insiders: Buxton's conversations with those who knew de Portago provide a deeply personal perspective on the racing driver’s life, capturing anecdotes and memories that paint a vivid picture of his character and career.

• Historical Context: The film provides rich historical context, showcasing de Portago's impact on the world of racing and how his legacy compares to other legends of the era.

• Racing Footage and Archives: Utilising archival footage and historical records, the documentary brings de Portago's races to life, allowing viewers to experience the thrill and danger of his driving prowess.

Will Buxton driving the AC Ace

My Role: Bringing the Story to Life Through Editing

As an editor on this project, I had the privilege of shaping this incredible story into a cohesive and engaging film. Editing "Ferrari's Lost Driver" involved meticulously weaving together interviews, archival footage, and Buxton’s journey to create a narrative that is both informative and emotionally resonant. Working alongside Charlotte who took the editing lead on this project.

Challenges and Triumphs in Editing:

• Balancing Past and Present: One of the key challenges was to seamlessly blend the historical footage with the contemporary interviews and Buxton's travels. This required careful attention to detail to ensure that the transitions felt natural and enhanced the storytelling.

• Pacing and Structure: Maintaining the right pacing was crucial to keep viewers engaged. The film needed to flow smoothly from one segment to the next, building suspense and emotional depth as Buxton uncovers more about de Portago’s life.

• Emotional Resonance: Capturing the emotional weight of de Portago's story was essential. By highlighting the personal recollections and the dramatic moments of his career, the editing aimed to honor his legacy and evoke a strong response from the audience.

The crew on set filming interviews with Will Buxton

The Impact: A Tribute to a Racing Legend

"Ferrari's Lost Driver: The Alfonso de Portago Story" is set to make a significant impact upon its release. It not only resurrects the memory of a forgotten hero but also offers a poignant reminder of the risks and passions that define the world of motorsport. This film is a tribute to de Portago's spirit and a testament to the enduring allure of racing history.

Will Buxton on set

Conclusion

Working on "Ferrari's Lost Driver: The Alfonso de Portago Story" has been a remarkable experience. The dedication of Charlotte Fantelli, Will Buxton, and the entire team at Branded Studios has resulted in a documentary that is as thrilling as it is moving. As we prepare for its release, I am excited for audiences to rediscover the legacy of Alfonso de Portago and to be inspired by his story. Stay tuned for the premiere of this captivating film, and join us in celebrating a true racing icon.