Sony is firmly committed to translating its most legendary PlayStation properties into on-screen adaptations, a trend that began with last year’s Uncharted movie, followed by The Last of Us series on HBO, the forthcoming Twisted Metal series on Peacock, and imminent games such as God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn. The next feature to hit the big screen is Gran Turismo, an adaptation of the celebrated, long-standing racing franchise that has been Sony’s top-selling brand with over 90 million units sold worldwide. A month ahead of its August 11 premiere, the film is garnering opinions from critics and media pundits, with the adrenaline-fueled coming-of-age narrative from director Neil Blomkamp stealing the limelight.
Gran Turismo games, not particularly famous for their narratives, pushed Sony Pictures to tie in the game with the real-life journey of Jann Mardenborough, a teenage Gran Turismo gamer who was granted a golden opportunity via the GT Academy competition. By outperforming his rivals, he managed to convert his virtual skills to actual raceway prowess as a driver for Team Nissan, participating in global events and turning his hobby into a profession. Archie Madekwe will portray Mardenborough, charting his ascent through the Academy, actualizing his dream, and simultaneously juggling his personal and love life beyond the car while coping with the life-threatening risks each race presents.
Madekwe is supported by an accomplished ensemble, with David Harbour as his coach and Orlando Bloom as the Nissan marketing executive who facilitated his induction through the GT Academy. Darren Barnet of Never Have I Ever fame and Josha Stradowski will be Madekwe’s main competitors in the Academy and on the racetrack, while Djimon Hounsou, Geri Halliwell, and Daniel Puig will portray his family.
Image via Sony
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Sony has long intended to adapt the racing simulator series into a movie. As early as 2013, plans were initiated for Gran Turismo to transition to the big screen with Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski once on board. The baton was eventually passed to Blomkamp, who directed Elysium in 2013, with American Sniper co-writer Jason Hall and King Richard writer Zach Baylin crafting the screenplay. What is the critics’ verdict on the movie being billed as “the ultimate wish fulfillment tale?”
What Are the Reviews and Audience Reactions to Gran Turismo?
Perri Nemiroff from FilmSweep termed the film a “robust adaptation,” lauding its “visceral” essence and “tangible texture”:
Some critics dubbed the film “smooth,” hinting at nods to the original game that fans might pick up on:
Certain reviews highlighted stars Archie Madekwe and David Harbour as exceptional performers in the film:
Gran Turismo will be racing to theaters on August 11. Below is the trailer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Gran Turismo Movie
What is the Gran Turismo movie about?
The Gran Turismo movie is a cinematic adaptation of the popular racing video game franchise by Sony. The movie is based on the real-life story of Jann Mardenborough, a teenage Gran Turismo player who made his dream of professional racing come true through a competition known as the GT Academy.
Who are the main actors in the Gran Turismo movie?
The movie stars Archie Madekwe as Jann Mardenborough. It also features David Harbour as Mardenborough’s trainer, Orlando Bloom as a Nissan marketing executive, and Darren Barnet and Josha Stradowski as Mardenborough’s main competitors.
When is the Gran Turismo movie releasing?
The Gran Turismo movie is set to be released on August 11, 2023.
What are the early reviews saying about the Gran Turismo movie?
Early reviews and reactions to the Gran Turismo movie are positive. Critics have described the film as a robust and solid adaptation, praising the performances of Archie Madekwe and David Harbour.
Who directed the Gran Turismo movie?
The Gran Turismo movie was directed by Neil Blomkamp, known for his work on 2013’s Elysium.
More about Gran Turismo Movie
- Sony’s PlayStation Adaptations
- Gran Turismo Video Game
- Jann Mardenborough’s Racing Career
- Neil Blomkamp’s Directorial Works
- Gran Turismo Movie Trailer
- Early Reviews of Gran Turismo Movie
5 comments
Can Neil Blomkamp bring the same magic as Elysium? Really interested to see his take on a racing game adaptation.
man, never thought I’d see a Gran Turismo movie. Hope its as good as the game. Can’t wait 2 see it!!!
they said solid adaptation right? fingers crossed…we dont need another street fighter movie disaster lol.
David Harbour as a racing trainer, seriously? but hey if he pulls it off… that’s gonna be sick!!
Gotta say, Mardenborough’s story is pretty inspirational. If this movie does it justice, it’s gonna be one heck of a ride.