It seems like a good bet that movies about cars will always be with us. There are many ways these movies can be made, such as action films like The Fast & Furious, science fiction films like Transformers, or biopic films like Gran Turismo (GT).

Although Gran Turismo has been a solid pillar of racing games since its inception, is the movie a good representation of the GT video game franchise and is it captivating enough for those lacking in the racing genre? Read on to find out!

Fuel of Surprises

The film follows Jann Mardenborough (Archie Madekwe) in the early stages of his career as he attempts to compete with world-class drivers by using his Gran Turismo gaming skills. Directed by Neill Blomkamp, the film focuses on the journey of Jann and how GT Academy has a solid set foot in the world of professional racing. Some of the interesting highlights that pay homage to the GT franchise are the behind-the-scenes development of the video game, Polyphony Digital’s presence, and the integrated role of the founder of Gran Turismo, Kazunori Yamauchi played by actor Takehiro Hira. For someone who is not familiar with the racing genre, it’s fascinating to watch how the team seamlessly intertwined virtual with reality using racing simulators. What’s more, is that Yamauchi-san himself made a short cameo in the film in an unlikely role and it was indeed a pleasant surprise to witness the icon inside the movie.

However, it’s a shame that the film doesn’t show enough of these homages, resulting in a feeling that the story is stagnant in that particular part. Yamauchi’s character somewhat awkwardly and briefly appears at various stages in the movie, but it feels clunky. He has less to no dialogue throughout the entirety of it. Moreover, the movie could have shown just how influential the GT franchise really is, including the GT Academy alumni, polyphony Digital employees, like Tom Brooks, or the Gran Turismo esports players. Of course, the movie is not solely about the GT franchise but it would be much more interesting to show the general audience the full potential behind the Gran Turismo video game scene.

However, if you watch the movie with an open mind without much expectation of the game franchise, you will definitely have a better experience.

The Language of Speed

For the most part, the story is your average sports drama narrative, how an aspiring race car gamer turns racer through passion and determination. A majority of the story is spent with Jann Mardenborough going back and forth with the trainer of GT Academy, Jack Salter (David Harbour). Both of them have a lot of screen time, and they are by far the standout performances using the teacher-student dynamic. Formulaic, but effective regardless.

What made the movie enjoyable is its adaptation of the video game racing series. In this film, the viewer is taken to a variety of race tracks around the world, which are also available in the game, and the sound effects and elements of the HUD make you feel immersed in the experience. The game’s graphics are cleverly used outside of the courses, and every shot of the racing and drivers was stunning showing the beauty and chaos of the racing world, regardless of whether it is virtual or real. It’s clear that no expense was spared in achieving a very high production value, and it’s done sparingly as to not wear out its welcome and overload your senses. The production, cinematography, sound, and music is all top-notch and extremely well done.

Gran Turismo movie is a captivating-if-familiar watch that’s part PlayStation advertisement, but mostly a heartfelt and inspirational story of an outsider rising to the top and achieving the impossible dream: one involving fast cars and dangerous courses. If you’re a fan of the Gran Turismo series or racing as a whole, this movie will definitely appeal to you, and it might end up being a favourite of yours as well. For those who aren’t well-versed in the racing genre, it’s a refreshing take on a car movie and video game adaptation that happens to be an enjoyable watch with family and friends. A huge PlayStation advertisement? Sure, but it’s one with soul and inspiration if you can believe that.

FINAL SCORE: 70/100

We attended an early screening of Gran Turismo courtesy of Sony Pictures Malaysia. Gran Turismo: Based On A True Story is slated to premiere in Malaysian cinemas on 18 August 2023.