‘F1’: A Hollywood blockbuster racing toward authenticity
"F1" Movie Brings Formula 1 to Life in Adrenaline-Fueled Style
As the adrenaline-fueled summer blockbuster "F1" approaches its global theatrical release, Formula 1 fans and movie enthusiasts alike are buzzing with anticipation. Directed by Joseph Kosinski of "Top Gun: Maverick" fame and produced by a powerhouse team that includes Brad Pitt, Jerry Bruckheimer, and seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, the film promises to take audiences on a thrilling ride through the high-speed world of motorsport. Scheduled for an international debut on June 25 and a U.S. premiere two days later, "F1" aims to blend the visceral intensity of Formula 1 with the storytelling punch of Hollywood—but how close does it get to the real thing?
Unprecedented Access and Authenticity
From the start, Kosinski pursued "authenticity" as the movie’s guiding principle. To achieve this, Formula 1 granted unprecedented access to the production team, allowing Brad Pitt and Damson Idris—who plays rookie driver Joshua Pearce—unparalleled immersion in the sport. The actors lined up alongside the real 2023 and 2024 British Grand Prix grids, filming during live formation laps in modified APX GP cars. The fictional team they represent, APX GP, was seamlessly embedded into the paddock at select events, with full pit garage setups, hospitality units, and cameo appearances from recognizable F1 drivers, team principals, and commentators—all creating layers of realism for fans familiar with Netflix’s "Drive to Survive."
An On-Track Hollywood Drama
The film walks a fine line between blockbuster spectacle and genuine motorsport drama. Brad Pitt portrays Sonny Hayes, a retired driver coaxed back into Formula 1 after thirty years to race for APX GP. His mission? Help the team secure a race win before the end of the season and prevent the loss of ownership by its boss—played by Javier Bardem. Alongside him, Idris’s rookie Pearce embodies the modern archetype of a hotshot newcomer, adding tension and stakes to their partnership-turned-rivalry.
Lewis Hamilton’s Critical Contribution
Serving as both a producer via his Dawn Apollo Films and a technical consultant, Lewis Hamilton was pivotal in shaping the movie’s ambition for authenticity. The seven-time champion offered firsthand insight into racing sequences, driver behavior, and Formula 1 strategies. Kosinski credited Hamilton’s involvement as indispensable:
“His involvement has been amazing. We couldn't make the film without him.”
Hamilton’s influence was evident during filming, as he mentored Brad Pitt and Damson Idris in race car driving and coached Pitt on tight blue-flag maneuvers during shooting at Hungary’s Hungaroring circuit. The use of cutting-edge camera technology to capture on-track action ensures high-octane moments that will enthrall even seasoned Formula 1 fans.
Mixed Reactions to Hollywood Tropes
While the movie’s real-life racing sequences set it apart, its narrative choices have sparked debate. Carlos Sainz, speaking at the New York premiere, advised fans:
"I'll just say for the pure F1 fan, be open-minded to Hollywood films."
Some purists may balk at elements like Hayes’ improbable comeback after thirty years away from racing—a storyline that leans heavily on Hollywood tropes. Hayes’ pivotal decision to trigger multiple safety car periods to aid Pearce further raises eyebrows in the context of Formula 1’s emphasis on integrity. Additionally, a romantic subplot between Hayes and APX GP’s technical director (played by Kerry Condon) has drawn criticism for reflecting outdated gender dynamics, a sensitive topic in a sport striving for better female representation.
Spectacle for New Fans
Shot with real Formula 1 drivers, including Charles Leclerc and George Russell during Abu Dhabi’s postseason tests, the film’s climactic racing scenes are its crown jewel. These moments balance cinematic thrills with authentic technical detail. For newcomers to Formula 1, the movie serves as a dynamic introduction to the sport—a fact underscored by early U.S. screenings. Surveys revealed that although only 18% of audience members had prior Formula 1 knowledge, nearly everyone expressed interest in attending a race after watching.
Jerry Bruckheimer emphasized the movie's broad appeal:
“This is the highest-rating movie that I've had as far as recommending it to your friends. … 'Definitely recommend' at 80%. It's unbelievable.”
Apple executive Tim Cue added:
“[At first] very few people have seen a race compared to the number of people in the theater. When we finish and we ask how many of you would like to go see a race now, literally every single hand goes up.”
A Bold Swing for Formula 1’s Global Popularity
Despite some liberties taken for dramatic effect, "F1" is poised to extend Formula 1’s global appeal. While hardcore fans may critique moments of exaggeration—such as sequences inspired by real-life accidents at Monza (2019) and Bahrain (2020)—the heart of the movie lies in bringing the sport to new audiences. Kosinski and his team crafted on-track scenes that capture the chaos and thrill of racing, even if purists feel the narrative falls short on technical depth.
Ultimately, "F1" combines Hollywood glitz with the grit of grand prix racing. Whether it's fully embraced or met with skepticism, the film marks a bold cinematic attempt to capture the magic of motorsport. Tailor-made for IMAX screens, it’s an adrenaline-fueled ride likely to attract a new generation of Formula 1 fans worldwide.
Up Next
