Overview: Gran Turismo is based on the unbelievable true story of a team of unlikely underdogs – a struggling working-class gamer (Archie Madekwe), a failed former racecar driver (David Harbour), and an idealistic motorsport executive (Orlando Bloom).

Together, they risk it all to take on the most elite sport in the world. Gran Turismo is an inspiring, thrilling, and action-packed story that proves that nothing is impossible when you’re fueled from within.

Blu-ray Verdict: In truth, I am not a big fan of car racing, or anything to do with cars, in general, BUT this movie grabbed my attention from the off and held it throughout! Jann’s journey, along with the other sim drivers, is as inspiring as it is entertaining. It was fascinating to see gamer’s who have raced courses thousands of times have their shot to race the same courses in person.

The film showcased some truly brilliant shots of the transition from video game to professional racing. The acting in this film is strong, with standouts from the three lead actors. David Harbour’s performance is one of the best of his career, as he embraced the role of grumpy coach without falling into campy over-acting (i.e. Black Widow). His chemistry with the actor who plays Jann, Archie Madekwe, is a highlight of the film. They have a scene together roughly 2/3 into the story that knocked my socks off.

As someone who enjoys films based on true stories, I immediately looked up the real events after walking out of the theater. Though most of the movie is factual, there were certain artistic liberties taken which altered the storytelling. This wouldn’t have been bothersome, but when the filmmakers advertised Based on a True Story on every poster, I expected it to be a bit more truthful.

Aside from the slightly questionable following of source material, there isn’t a lot that I didn’t enjoy about Gran Turismo. The acting was strong, the stakes were high, and the core characters had tremendous depth. That being said, would have liked to see a bit more of Jann’s family, as most of those relationships were glossed over.

Furthermore, while I have never played the Gran Turismo video game, I’m eager to try it now. I was on the edge of my seat for the majority of the racing scenes and my nails are down to nothing. The disparity between so-called critics and fans of the game and racing, in general, should not impact your own personal experience though. I myself went into the movie with minimal expectations, and they were surpassed ten fold.

In conclusion, if you enjoy action movies that don’t rely on blazing guns and superhero action, chances are you will LOVE Gran Turismo. I found it thrilling and exciting and there truly never was a dull moment. I believe the underlying message here is never to give up on your dreams which makes this a truly wonderful, feelgood movie for the ages.

Special Features:
Deleted & Extended Scenes
The Engine: Driving the Visuals
The Pit Crew: Action and Stunts
The Garage: The Amazing Automobiles
The Plan: The True Story of Jann Mardenborough
The Wheels: The Fast-Acting Cast