Gran Turismo
Neill Blomkamp's adaptation of PlayStation's iconic sim racer Gran Turismo asks viewers to put the controller down, step away from the simulator & strap in for an exhilarating racing film.
Based on the true story of Jann Mardenbourough (Archie Madekwe) we witness an avid Gran Turismo player get to achieve the dream many like him have had before. After winning a tournament organised by Nissan, Jann is allowed to step inside a real racing car as a professional racing driver.
Helping Jann to achieve his dreams is disgruntled former driver turned team boss Jack Salter (David Harbour). Just like in real life though any successful racing team needs a big staff to support it, so viewers will also see other Hollywood stars such as Orlando Bloom, Geri Halliwell-Horner & Djimon Hounsou popping up throughout the film.
Each of these actors gives solid performances but David Harbour is by far the standout. Harbour portrays Harbour as a man with a rough exterior but a true loveable teddy bear deep down. The cringe writing & dialogue does get in the way of the performances & drew me out of the moment several times.
As a film adaptation of a video game, die-hard Gran Turismo will certainly be satiated. From cameos by the creator of Gran Turismo, Kazunori Yamauchi, to a visit to the Polyphony Digital game studio's offices & finally, a plethora of iconic Gran Turismo sounds & PlayStation logos.
Occasionally these Easter eggs can feel shoehorned in, particularly the visual cues. Far too often the depiction of racing feels like it was ripped straight out of the game, which instead of feeling like a loving homage instead feels like a budget-cutting measure.
As a gamer, this movie also feels like it talks down to you. This is most jarring with the cringy use of words such as "joystick", "nerf" & "noob".
Despite these criticisms, Gran Turismo is an overall entertaining, thrilling & shockingly heart-wrenching film. Lovers of the Gran Turismo game will witness a very well-done adaptation of their favourite game via a true story. Fans of sports dramas will be greeted with a gripping film that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout, just ignore the cringiness.
Pario Magazine stands in solidarity & support of the WGA & SAG-AFTRA in their fight for better working conditions.
Our publication has always been focused on the creative brilliance of these individuals rather than on the business of film/tv. As such we will continue to highlight their creative talents during this time so that their contributions to our entertainment are not overlooked.
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