A Fresh Perspective

Gran Turismo, the immensely popular racing video game, has taken the gaming world by storm. With an impressive player base of over 90,000 on PlayStation, one gamer's exceptional skills have earned him the opportunity of a lifetime. Sony has even dedicated a film to his remarkable story.

The Journey Begins

The film, directed by Neill Blomkamp, is an adaptation of the game that features a talented cast of actors. This comes as a pleasant surprise, considering that racing films have historically struggled to make an impact at the box office. Movies like "Grand Prix" and "Le Mans" have focused solely on showcasing powerful cars and the adrenaline of the sport, failing to resonate with audiences. However, Gran Turismo takes a different approach by shining a light on the new generation of gamers who find excitement in virtual racing.

The Road to Victory

The film draws inspiration from the true story of Jann Mardenborough, a British gamer who transformed into a professional racing driver. At the age of 19, Mardenborough stumbled upon an international competition called GT Academy, organized by Nissan. The competition aimed to transform a gamer into a genuine champion and ambassador for the Japanese car manufacturer. Mardenborough's journey from gaming in his bedroom to becoming a successful racer serves as the foundation for the film.

A Bittersweet Tale

Despite initial concerns about the adaptation, the film manages to avoid being a complete disappointment. It relies on a true story to capture the audience's attention and boasts a talented director and cast. However, the film falls short in terms of storytelling, lacking depth and relying too heavily on predictable obstacles and clichés. It is only when the harsh reality of the sport, including a fatal crash that Mardenborough experienced, is portrayed that the film evokes genuine emotion.

A Triumph of Achievement

While Gran Turismo may not be groundbreaking, it is a heartwarming film that celebrates the power of achievement. It showcases the technical prowess of the video game and its ability to create legitimate racing champions. However, it falls short in capturing the essence of motorsport, lacking the rivalries and intensity that define the sport. Overall, the film is a decent watch but fails to leave a lasting impression.

Words of the day

Prowess : Habileté (French translation of prowess)

Triumph : Triomphe (French translation of triumph)