Review: 'Gran Turismo' delivers a podium finish win inspite of a few bumpy tracks

Gran Turismo

Playing video games to being on an actual race track - sounds just as bananas as the character of Jack (David Harbour) first responds to when heard upon by another character. That is what Gran Turismo is built around though, as it gives us the disclaimer that it is 'based on a true story' following which we see the story of Jann Mardenborough.

With rushing adrenaline, edge-of-the-seat moments, jaw-dropping sequences all being a given with racing drama films, Gran Turismo tries to tell a bigger story. Does it succeed? Having had the chance to see the film, here is what I thought about it-

First & Foremost - The Races

Let's cut to the chase as racing is pretty much the primary reason for anyone to look forward to this film apart from being a video game fanatic. Over the years, we have witnessed some path-breaking racing films and the legacy, when it comes to pure racing is fulfilled here as well.

Each and every race is stupendously designed and choreographed with some innovative editing and camera techniques that take you by surprise. The pace of frames in showing a race is always so rapid that tiny details can be missed but here, the makers literally pause the race to convey something important - be it the position the car is in or a development that needs to be seen and absorbed.

And to that, some adrenaline-rushing and exhilarating music and background score acts as the perfect aid. The race segments of the film are a total knockout, albeit predictable.

The Predictability

The last word above acts as a segue for us into talking about the predictable nature of the film's storytelling. There's only a certain few ways racing films can go from being an underdog story to witnessing heights to having a fall and then rising from the ashes. 

The trajectory is pretty much similar here but thankfully, the treatment is a lot better than the material. Even then, Thr  will be able to predict almost everything going on and set to happen ahead and that takes away from the overall impact of the film.

The Performances and the Heart

When you present a saga that is so predictable in its nature, the reliance on performances increases four-folds. Fortunately, each and every actor delivers in what was expected of them. The standouts are David Harbour as Jack Salter and Orlando Bloom as Danny Moore who bring their veteran chops to infuse drama and madness into the film that is much needed.

But most importantly, the heart of the film is at the right place where inspite of the cliches and casual nature of being a racing film; the intended feeling, the intended edge-of-the-seat drama and nail-biting moments land rather aptly.

The Verdict

Gran Turismo is the perfect visual treat and an overdrive for video game lovers who have played the game in the past and otherwise. But from the storytelling's perspective, the film struggles with predictability and known spots. Even then, watching this film almost guarantees a rise in your adrenaline levels so much that you would want to have a crazy workout (at the very least).

Rating - ***1/2 (3.5/5)