Stranger Things star David Harbour’s experience filming the upcoming movie Gran Turismo was far from smooth sailing. In a revealing new interview, Harbour opens up about the challenging process of filming realistic racing sequences for the action film based on the popular video game.
Though it tested his limits, Harbour’s trial-by-fire introduction to professional driving provided valuable insight and respect for the sport.
Harbour Had a Rough Time on the Race Track
Stranger Things star David Harbour recently revealed the real reason behind his less-than-ideal experience filming driving scenes for the upcoming film Gran Turismo. Speaking to Jalopnik, Harbour described the process of filming realistic racing sequences as “just terrible,” explaining that he felt completely out of his element behind the wheel of a race car.
Despite working with professional drivers and receiving training for the role, David Harbour struggled to gain any sense of control or comfort driving at high speeds around a track. “I’m supposed to be this professional race car driver, but I have no idea what I’m doing,” he told Jalopnik. Though computer-generated effects were used for some scenes, Harbour was required to do extensive practical racing for realistic shots. This proved difficult for the experienced actor who had no prior race car experience before taking on the role.
Accuracy and authenticity were top priorities
Gran Turismo producers and directors prioritized capturing accurate and authentic racing scenes for the film, which is based on the popular video game franchise. That meant Harbour had to learn legit racing skills and techniques to convincingly portray his character, a retired professional driver. Though he understood the need for authenticity, the chaotic, high-speed environment left Harbour feeling overwhelmed as someone new to professional racing.
Despite the challenges, Harbour expressed appreciation for the film’s focus on realism. “The movie does an incredible job at taking you into the racing,” he said. While digital effects were used sparingly, Harbour’s time behind the real wheel provides the human element at the film’s core.
Read more: Gran Turismo Movie: Plot Details And Release Date
Harbour Gained Respect for Pro Drivers
Though filming Gran Turismo proved difficult for Harbour, the experience gave him immense respect for real pro drivers. He told Jalopnik he feels driving a race car is likely the most challenging thing for an actor to convincingly portray. Beyond technical racing skills, drivers must display tireless mental focus, calmness under pressure, and exceptional physical conditioning.
After gaining first-hand experience barreling around a track at 150 mph, Harbour has a newfound appreciation for the concentration, athleticism, and fortitude demanded by professional racing. While he may not have enjoyed the process, Harbour’s perspective has grown and he now has a personal understanding of the incredible abilities shown by elite drivers.
For Stranger Things star David Harbour, filming racing scenes for Gran Turismo proved an uncomfortable and frightening endeavor. However, his revealing behind-the-scenes account provides interesting insight into the acting challenges and priorities behind the highly anticipated racing film. Harbour’s trial-by-fire introduction to professional racing resulted in a new respect for drivers and a commitment to realistic action in the movie. Though not an experience he’d like to repeat, Harbour’s revelations add intrigue and depth to the upcoming blockbuster.
Source: CBR
