“F1: The Movie” Hits cinema’s This Weekend

The highly anticipated F1: The Movie opens in cinemas worldwide this weekend, showcasing a thrilling blend of high-speed racing and dramatic storytelling. Directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), this action-packed sports drama promises to be a standout on the summer movie roster.

Star-Powered Cast

Leading the cast is Brad Pitt, who stars as Sonny Hayes, a retired Formula 1 driver coaxed back into racing. Alongside him is Damson Idris as rookie driver Joshua Pearce, with Kerry Condon portraying Kate, the technical director of a struggling team. Academy Award‑winner Javier Bardem also features in a pivotal role.

Authenticity Behind the Scenes

What sets F1: The Movie apart is its deep connection to the real sport. Scenes were filmed at actual Grand Prix events during the 2023–24 seasons, and real-life talents like Max Verstappen, Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz, and Lando Norris appear as themselves.

Crucially, seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, serves as an executive producer on the film. Hamilton’s influence is profound, he provided technical advice, ensured authenticity, and even recommended including familiar voices like Sky Sports commentators David Croft and Martin Brundle for greater realism.

Director Kosinski praised Hamilton’s contributions, noting technical details Hamilton shared, like precise racing strategies at the Hungaroring, and highlighting how Hamilton helped shape both narrative and atmosphere.

High-Octane Action Meets Emotional Storytelling

Set at the fictional APXGP team, the story follows Sonny Hayes as he mentors Joshua Pearce and fights to keep the team afloat. The film delves into themes of redemption, legacy, and the intense dynamics within racing culture. Reviewers have called it the most visually spectacular motorsport film ever made.

Opening Weekend Predictions

Industry analysts predict the film could earn more than $115 million globally during its opening weekend, buoyed by early buzz and strong pre-sales, especially for IMAX and premium format screenings.

This film is Apple Original Films’ theatrical flagship, backed by Warner Bros. It’s seen as a pivotal moment for both Apple and the F1 film genre. With Hamilton’s on-board authenticity and Pitt’s star power, the blockbuster is expected to attract both seasoned fans and newcomers.