Sony Pictures’ film adaptation of the “Gran Turismo” gaming franchise has officially begun shooting. The studio has also released a behind-the-scenes image of cars at a starting line to celebrate the start of production.
The project is avoiding the “Need for Speed” route of building a fictional crime drama narrative around a racing game. Instead, it’s taking the approach of an aspirational drama inspired by a true story involving the games.
Described as ‘the ultimate wish fulfilment tale,’ the story follows a teenage Gran Turismo player whose gaming skills were good enough that he won a series of Nissan competitions to become an actual professional race car driver.
Archie Madekwe (“See”) leads the cast which also includes David Harbour, Orlando Bloom, Darren Barnett, Djimon Hounsou, Geri Halliwell-Horner, Daniel Puig, Josha Stradowski and Thomas Kretschman.
“District 9” and “Elysium” helmer Neill Blomkamp is directing from a script by Jason Hall. Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, Doug Belgrad and Dana Brunetti produce.
“Gran Turismo” will reach the finish line of cinemas on August 11th 2023.
Filming is now underway on #GranTurismoMovie – based on the inspiring true story of a Gran Turismo player, Jann Mardenborough, who won a series of gaming competitions leading him to become an actual professional racecar driver. pic.twitter.com/gV13gEg2G5
— Sony Pictures (@SonyPictures) November 12, 2022