When indulging in the world of video games, we are transported to a realm of endless possibilities where we can assume the roles of our favorite characters and engage in activities beyond our physical abilities. Gran Turismo, a game inspired by the remarkable story of Jann Mardenborough, delves into this intriguing concept by presenting a scenario in which gamers can translate their virtual skills into the real world.
What if the best NBA2k players were given a chance to play in the NBA or if the best Call of Duty players were sent off to war? This seemingly insane concept is brought to life beautifully in Gran Turismo.
The driving scenes aren’t the most interesting parts of the movie. Instead, what really captivates the audience is how Mardenborough deals with his family and critics’ disbelief that he can pull off his dream of racing a car that can reach speeds over 200 MPH. For instance, imagine how a fellow racer, who has been driving since birth, might react to a gamer suddenly joining the race.
The scenes with Jann and his father are particularly powerful as they show both sides of parenting. Jann’s father is determined to prevent his son from struggling as he did, while Jann just wants his father to believe in his dreams. Rising star Archie Uchena Madekwe plays Mardenborough brilliantly throughout the movie, but David Harbour steals every scene he is in as Jack Salter, Jann’s trainer. Salter is the perfect balance of someone who truly believes mentoring Jann is an impossible dream and someone who always supports Jann. This movie is not just for gamers. It is for anyone who has ever had a dream and been told it is impossible to achieve. The film should inspire kids from all walks of life to keep striving for what makes them happy and motivated to be the best they can be. Too many people are stuck in jobs they hate because they do not dare to be great, but this film dares to be great and hits the finish line perfectly.
8 out 10 BSO stars.
