Anticipation is building for the release of F1, the high-octane racing film starring Brad Pitt and directed by Top Gun: Maverick‘s Joseph Kosinski. While predicting exact box office numbers is always a challenge, several key factors point towards a potentially strong opening weekend for the movie, which aims to bring the thrilling world of Formula 1 to the big screen.
The film centers on Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), a veteran driver returning to the sport with a fictional 11th team, APXGP, alongside rookie teammate Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris). Backed by team owner Ruben (Javier Bardem) and guided by technical director Kate McKenna (Kerry Condon), the duo navigates the intense pressures and rivalries of the F1 circuit.
Authenticity on Track: A Key Selling Point
One of the most significant elements setting F1 apart is the filmmakers’ commitment to realism. Director Joseph Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer, known for their immersive action sequences, have taken unprecedented steps to capture the true sensation of speed and competition.
Real Cars, Real Driving: Instead of relying solely on CGI, the production utilized modified Formula 2 cars, engineered by Mercedes-AMG to resemble F1 vehicles and equipped with advanced, compact camera systems. Both Brad Pitt and Damson Idris underwent months of training and are genuinely driving these cars at high speeds on actual F1 tracks.
Cutting-Edge Filming: Leveraging technology developed for Top Gun: Maverick, custom cameras were mounted in and around the cockpit (up to seven at a time), providing an “eye-of-the-driver” perspective. Wireless control systems allowed filmmakers to pan and focus cameras remotely during dynamic on-track sequences.
Filming During Live Events: The production integrated itself into real F1 race weekends across the 2023 and 2024 seasons, capturing footage at iconic circuits like Silverstone, Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi, Las Vegas, Mexico City, and Monza. This not only provides authentic backdrops but also incorporates the energy of real Grand Prix crowds. The film even had its own garage and pitwall setup at some venues, adding another layer of realism.
Lewis Hamilton’s Seal of Approval
Seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton serves as a producer on the film, playing a crucial role in ensuring technical accuracy. His input, reportedly down to reviewing script details like tire compounds and track turns, has been invaluable in making the motorsport aspects convincing for dedicated fans.
F1 Drivers React Positively
Following a private advanced screening attended by many current F1 drivers and team principals ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, the response was largely positive. Drivers praised the quality of the on-track filming and the film’s potential to draw new fans to the sport.
Many highlighted the impressive on-board shots and the authentic feel of the racing action.
While acknowledging the necessary balance between realism and “Hollywood” drama for broader appeal, insiders felt the film successfully captured the intensity and emotional experience of being a driver.
There was a strong consensus that the movie would be “good for our sport,” making it accessible and captivating for newcomers who don’t currently follow Formula 1.
Star Power Meets Global Fandom
The combination of a major Hollywood star like Brad Pitt with the rapidly growing global phenomenon of Formula 1 (boosted by series like Drive to Survive) creates a powerful draw. The film’s release is strategically timed around the Austrian Grand Prix weekend in late June 2025, tapping directly into the F1 fan base at a peak time.
While some reviews have noted the non-racing narrative elements can feel formulaic, the overwhelming praise for the “scintillating” racing sequences suggests the movie delivers where it matters most for the core subject matter. The blend of authentic racing action, star power, and the endorsement from the F1 world itself positions F1 for significant interest upon its debut, potentially driving a strong showing during its opening weekend at the box office.
