Brad Pitt's 'F1' movie: a new era for Formula One cinema
Formula One fans are in for a cinematic treat as Hollywood enters the high-speed world of F1 courtesy of Brad Pitt, Jerry Bruckheimer, and "Top Gun: Maverick" director Joseph Kosinski. The movie, simply titled "F1," is set for release on June 25, 2025, and promises an unprecedented level of authenticity and access to the sport, featuring in-paddock, pit lane, and even grid filming at Silverstone for two consecutive years.
"The new feature film is set in the exhilarating and cinematic world of Formula One and will immerse audiences in the spectacle of the most popular annual sports series, celebrating the skill and heroism of the drivers while showcasing the incredible challenge of competition in Formula One," the championship stated.
While Netflix's "Drive to Survive" has garnered significant attention and brought a new wave of fans to the sport, insiders believe "F1" could have an even bigger impact. With Pitt's star power and the backing of Apple and Warner Brothers, the movie aims to capture the essence of F1 like never before. The presence of APXGP, the fictional team employing Pitt’s character, has already generated buzz, with fans donning team merchandise at races.
The filmmakers have gone to great lengths to ensure the movie looks and feels authentic. APXGP had its own garage at Silverstone last year, nestled between heavyweights Mercedes and Ferrari. The motorhome used for both filming and as a crew hub further cements the movie's commitment to realism.
Notably, Javier Bardem, playing the team boss of APXGP, was seen on the grid filming scenes, including a notable interaction with Red Bull boss Christian Horner. The trailer, which featured Queen's "We Will Rock You," showcased this commitment to authenticity with intense race footage and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
The trailer's dialogue sparked conversations as well. Pitt's character, Sonny Hayes, discusses race strategy with Kerry Condon's character, F1's first female technical director. "Our shot is battling in the turns. We need to build our car for combat," Hayes says. When asked about safety, he replies, "Safe? Who said anything about safe?" This mix of Hollywood flair and racing authenticity is poised to draw in both moviegoers and F1 purists.
Hamilton's role as an executive producer has been pivotal. "We want everyone to love it and to really feel that we encapsulate what the essence of this sport is all about," Hamilton said last year. The seven-time world champion's involvement has ensured that the racing scenes look and feel like real F1 action, with Pitt and co-star Damson Idris driving a modified Formula 2 car at various circuits.
Much like "Drive to Survive," "F1" aims to take viewers inside the paddock. Liberty Media has facilitated collaboration with teams and drivers, resulting in authentic scenes like interviews conducted in the TV media pen at the British GP. One viral moment featured Fernando Alonso interacting with Pitt, adding to the film’s allure.
The movie will feature every driver on the current grid in some capacity, with fans and teams participating in filming at various races. Notable cameos include former Haas boss Guenther Steiner and participation in driver briefings, enriching the movie's connection to the real racing world.
As anticipation builds ahead of the 2025 release, "F1" is shaping up to be a monumental project that not only celebrates the sport's excitement but also brings a level of authenticity unprecedented in previous racing films. From the collaborative efforts of the F1 community to the high-octane racing scenes, this film is set to be a visual and emotional spectacle for fans around the world.
Hamilton's closing remark sums up the sentiment: "Best driver briefing ever." If the movie lives up to its promise, it might just be the best F1 film ever made.
