MANILA, Philippines—The path to starring in the film Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story was an unexpected one for Archie Madekwe. A chance encounter led him to the project, and as he delved into the material, he was deeply moved by the inspiring narrative of Jann Mardenborough, the real-life gamer-turned-professional racecar driver whom Madekwe portrays in the film.
Reflecting on his motivation, Madekwe expresses, “Finding unknown, inspiring stories about people who look like me appeals to me as an actor. These are the stories that were missing when I was growing up, and I was compelled to tell this story.”
Jann Mardenborough, whose journey from gamer to racecar driver serves as the film’s centerpiece, shares the hope that the movie will resonate with kids who, like him, may have unconventional dreams. He aims to show them that self-trust and the pursuit of one’s passions are attainable goals.
Madekwe’s immersion into the role had its share of challenges, starting with the fact that he had never driven a car before. With dedication and a determination to learn, he balanced his acting commitments with driving lessons, preparing for his on-screen role. However, the biggest trial lay ahead – mastering the art of fake driving in the intense gaming environment of “Gran Turismo.”
Image Courtesy of Columbia Pictures.
“I had to actually be good at the game,” Madekwe reveals. In scenes set within a gaming café, he had to genuinely compete against formidable AI opponents and secure victory. The daunting prospect of excelling at the game weighed heavily on him, recognizing the immense skill and practice required in the world of professional gaming.
To achieve authenticity in his performance, Madekwe underwent rigorous training under the guidance of David Perel, a sim driver who transitioned to real-world racing with Ferrari. The training involved setting up a simulator at his home, complete with a racing seat, steering wheel, and pedals. With unwavering dedication, he practiced tirelessly, honing skills that mirrored those of professional racecar drivers. The process allowed Madekwe to develop profound respect and admiration for the drivers who navigate the complexities of racing with incredible precision.
Image Courtesy of Columbia Pictures.
Despite his newfound prowess in the virtual realm, Madekwe isn’t harboring ambitions of a racing career. Acknowledging the immense challenges and demands of real-life racing, he humorously admits, “No, with nothing but respect for every racecar driver on this planet… I hate being in the car.” He elaborates on the physical and mental strains of racing, emphasizing the rigorous athleticism required to make split-second decisions under extreme conditions.
As the film “Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story” prepares to grace Philippine cinemas on August 30, audiences can anticipate a heartwarming underdog story that resonates with determination, dreams, and the unexpected journey of both a real-life figure and the actor who brought his story to life.
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