Full Throttle- The Life of Bruce Kessler
There are stories whispered in the garages of racing legends, but few are as captivating as Bruce Kessler's. This wasn't a man destined for racetracks. As a child battling asthma, the sterile walls of a sanitarium seemed like his fate. But Bruce wasn't wired to stand still. The allure of engines ignited a fire - transforming a frail boy into a force of will, determined to leave sickness in his dust.
I had the privilege of spending countless hours with Bruce in his Marina del Rey home, unearthing the heart of his remarkable journey for my Scarab documentary. His recollections take us from Europe's grand circuits to the gritty ambition of the all-American Scarab team - a testament to his tenacity and raw skill behind the wheel. These aren't just recounted races; they're windows into the relentless drive of a man who faced injuries and setbacks, only to rise again.
And Bruce's indomitable spirit didn't stop when the checkered flag fell. That same passion found a new track in Hollywood. He traded the symphony of roaring engines for the creative hum of film sets, making his mark in filmmaking. My documentary reveals these intersections, Bruce's singular voice shaping both racing history and entertainment.
These interviews weren't just data points; they were glimpses into the soul of a man who defied limitations at every turn. His voice, sometimes booming with laughter, sometimes etched with the wisdom of hard-earned experience, reveals Bruce in his true element: not just a racer, but a relentless spirit. This documentary isn't just about the iconic Scarab, it's about a man who could no more be defined by a single chapter than a race can be won in a single lap.
If the roar of classic racing sets your pulse pounding, if you believe in the power of will against all odds, then this is a story you need to experience. Bruce Kessler's journey is a raw and beautiful reminder that sometimes the most exhilarating finish lines are the ones we set for ourselves.
Dean Kirkland is a filmmaker and author renowned for his profound insights into the world of motorsports and the lives of those who have shaped its history. With a career that spans over two decades in the entertainment industry, Dean has directed and produced numerous documentaries, each telling a story that connects deeply with his audience. His passion for racing, combined with a keen eye for detail, allows him to unveil the human side of the high-speed world of motorsport.
In "Full Throttle: The Bruce Kessler Story," Dean turns his focus to Bruce Kessler, a legendary figure in both the racing and film industries. Through this book, Dean captures the essence of a man who lived his life with intensity and purpose, making an indelible mark on everything he touched. Dean's narrative is a heartfelt tribute to Bruce's legacy, woven from the hours they spent together, revealing a story of triumph, passion, and relentless drive.
This book not only explores Bruce Kessler's thrilling racing career but also delves into his successful transition into filmmaking, offering readers a unique glimpse into the life of an extraordinary individual who never slowed down. Dean Kirkland's dedication to storytelling shines through as he honors a friend whose life was as fast and fascinating as the cars he raced.
Dean Kirkland