Ranking the Likability of Characters in ‘Gran Turismo’ Film

Neill Blomkamp’s latest sports drama, “Gran Turismo,” draws inspiration from the popular PlayStation game series and is a compelling tale based on the real-life journey of gamer-turned-racer, Jann Mardenborough (played by Archie Madekwe). The film’s narrative revolves around Jann’s struggles and triumphs, transitioning from his days of playing racing simulators in his bedroom to competing in professional racing events. As with most sports dramas, the strength of the central characters plays a pivotal role in engaging the audience with the storyline. In this article, we’ll rank the best characters in the movie based on their likability, and delve into their roles and contributions to the film’s narrative.

10. Nicholas Capa

Nicholas Capa, portrayed by Josha Stradowski, is a professional racer known for his aggressive driving style. In the film’s second half, Capa becomes Jann’s formidable rival. His traditional racing background leads him to look down on Jann’s simulation training. Capa’s clashes with Jann inject tension and excitement into the film’s racing sequences. He’s willing to take significant risks to sabotage Jann’s chances of success, making him an effective antagonist brought to life by Stradowski’s intense portrayal.

9. Matty Davis

Matty Davis, portrayed by Darren Barnet, is a fellow driver at the GT Academy. He consistently performs well in practice races and initially comes across as arrogant and competitive. Matty is Jann’s main rival at the GT Academy due to their similar skill levels and Matty’s unfriendly demeanor. However, their relationship evolves after Jann narrowly defeats Matty in a race. Matty’s character experiences growth during the climactic 24 Hours of Le Mans race, where he becomes Jann’s teammate, displaying genuine kindness and graciousness.

8. Antonio Cruz

Antonio Cruz, played by Pepe Barroso, is one of the top drivers at the GT Academy, akin to real-life Spanish racer Lucas Ordóñez. Antonio is characterized as a kind-hearted young man who befriends Jann, despite their professional rivalry at the Academy. While Antonio is a minor character, his likability and driving prowess shine through. His skills lead him to become one of Jann’s teammates during the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, where his performance contributes to Jann’s team’s success.

7. Kazunori Yamauchi

Kazunori Yamauchi, portrayed by Takehiro Hira, is the creator of the Gran Turismo racing game series. He’s depicted as an intelligent business executive deeply passionate about his product. Although Yamauchi’s role in the film is small, the introductory sequence effectively conveys his vision for the game and its creation. Takehiro Hira’s portrayal underscores Yamauchi’s wisdom and dedication. Notably, the real Kazunori Yamauchi makes a cameo appearance in the film as a sushi chef Jann encounters in Tokyo, adding an authentic touch to the narrative.

6. Danny Moore

Danny Moore, played by Orlando Bloom, is a fictional Nissan executive credited as the mastermind behind the GT Academy’s creation. Danny is an enthusiastic and optimistic character who believes in his innovative idea of bringing gamers into real-life racing competitions. Although he occasionally doubts Jann’s suitability due to his lack of media training, Danny provides unwavering support when it matters most. Orlando Bloom’s portrayal exudes boyish energy and charm, effectively conveying Danny’s confidence in his plans.

5. Lesley Mardenborough

Lesley Mardenborough, portrayed by Geri Halliwell-Horner, is Jann’s mother. She is depicted as a kind and supportive woman who deeply loves her son. Unlike her husband, Lesley has no reservations about Jann’s pursuit of his dreams and wholeheartedly encourages him throughout the film. Racing being an exceptionally perilous sport, Lesley’s emotional turmoil during Jann’s car accident is sensitively and realistically portrayed. Her unwavering belief in and love for her son make Lesley Mardenborough a highly likable character.

4. Audrey

Maeve Courtier-Lilley as Audrey in Gran Turismo, kissing Jann (Archie Madekwe)

Audrey, played by Maeve Courtier-Lilley, is Jann’s love interest in the film. She is characterized as a sweet and attentive partner who actively listens to Jann’s aspirations and shares her own desire to travel the world. Audrey consistently supports Jann, even when his goal of transitioning from a gamer to a professional driver seems outlandish. Courtier-Lilley’s portrayal infuses warmth into the role, ensuring Audrey isn’t a forgettable love interest. Her on-screen chemistry with Archie Madekwe enhances the character’s likability as she brings out Jann’s sensitive side and encourages him to pursue his dreams.

3. Steve Mardenborough

Steve Mardenborough, portrayed by Djimon Hounsou, is Jann’s father, and their relationship forms the film’s most emotionally resonant arc. Hounsou delivers a remarkable performance, portraying a man burdened by regrets about his own life choices and fervently desiring a better future for his son. Steve’s love for his son is unwavering, but he initially dismisses Jann’s dream of becoming a racing driver as unrealistic, encouraging him to pursue football instead. However, as Steve gradually begins to support Jann’s racing career, their father-son relationship culminates in a tender and emotional moment. Despite his flaws, Steve emerges as one of the film’s most likable characters.

2. Jack Salter

Jack Salter, portrayed by David Harbour, is a composite character representing various mentors and tutors in the real Jann Mardenborough’s career. Jack starts as a jaded former racecar driver and evolves into a passionate and caring mentor for Jann. He provides solace during Jann’s low moments and celebrates his successes. Harbour’s energetic and dedicated performance reflects his enthusiasm on set, creating a character who is tough yet endearing due to the kindness beneath his rugged exterior.

1. Jann Mardenborough

The film’s central character, Jann Mardenborough, is portrayed by Archie Madekwe. Jann is a dedicated and ambitious young man who embarks on a journey from a gamer to a professional racer. He possesses remarkable driving and car mechanics knowledge, which serves him well in both gaming and racing. The film traces Jann’s highs and lows in his racing career, with Madekwe delivering a compelling performance that captures both Jann’s successes and failures. To prepare for the role, Madekwe immersed himself in the Gran Turismo games, allowing him to empathize with the real Jann Mardenborough’s perspective. Jann is a likable and inspirational protagonist, and his remarkable journey forms the heart of the film.

In “Gran Turismo,” these characters, each with their unique personalities and contributions to the story, collectively make the film an engaging and emotionally resonant experience for the audience. Through their likable portrayals, they add depth and dimension to the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience.