Brad Pitt steps into the driver’s seat for “F1: The Movie,” a highly anticipated racing drama directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for his exhilarating work on “Top Gun: Maverick.” Set against the backdrop of the intense and glamorous world of Formula 1 racing, the film aims to deliver high-octane action, compelling drama, and the kind of star power that defines classic Hollywood blockbusters.
Positioned as a quintessential summer movie, “F1” arrives with a promise of speed, spectacle, and the magnetic presence of Brad Pitt. It seeks to blend the technical demands of elite motorsport with a human story of last chances and mentorship, echoing the director’s previous success in balancing aging star power with stunning visual sequences.
What is F1: The Movie About?
The narrative centers on Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), a former Formula 1 prodigy whose promising career ended abruptly decades ago after a severe crash. Now living a more modest life as a racer-for-hire, Sonny is presented with an unexpected opportunity by his former rival, Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), who now owns APXGP, a struggling F1 team on the verge of collapse.
Ruben recruits Sonny not just to drive, but also to leverage his experience to help save the team and, crucially, to mentor their exceptionally talented but often reckless young star driver, Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris). The story follows APXGP through a challenging F1 season, exploring the dynamics between the seasoned veteran and the ambitious rookie, the pressures of competition, and the fight for survival both on and off the track. The film also features Kerry Condon as the team’s technical director and Tobias Menzies as an investor.
High-Octane Action and Visual Spectacle
One of the most universally praised aspects of “F1: The Movie” is its breathtaking depiction of the racing sequences. Director Joseph Kosinski brings lessons learned from “Top Gun: Maverick,” employing practical effects and innovative camera work, including intimate, vehicle-mounted perspectives, to immerse the audience directly into the visceral experience of high-speed Formula 1.
These on-track moments are described by critics as exhilarating, dynamic, and a significant step forward in presenting motorsports on the big screen. Bolstered by a driving score from Hans Zimmer and sharp editing, the races capture a palpable sense of speed and danger. While some intricate racing strategies might be less clear for newcomers to the sport, the sheer technical execution and adrenaline rush of the action are undeniable highlights, making the asphalt battles feel incredibly immediate.
Performances and Star Power
At the core of the film’s appeal is Brad Pitt. His portrayal of Sonny Hayes is highlighted for its charisma, laidback magnetism, and “Zen master” demeanor. Pitt brings a notable swagger to the role of the veteran driver getting one final shot. Damson Idris is effective as the talented, self-absorbed young rival, often portrayed as more focused on social media presence than team unity. While the mentor-rookie dynamic follows a familiar trajectory seen in many sports dramas, the chemistry between Pitt and Idris helps carry these scenes. Javier Bardem provides a smooth presence as the team owner, and Kerry Condon features as a key member of the team’s leadership.
Formulaic Plot vs. Exhilarating Ride
While the action receives widespread acclaim, critiques often point to the film’s adherence to familiar narrative formulas. Some reviewers found the plot predictable and the character development, particularly for supporting roles, somewhat thin or underdeveloped. The dialogue scenes are occasionally noted as primarily serving to transition between the more exciting race sequences.
Despite these criticisms, the film leans into its strengths as a spectacle. It’s described as succeeding on “pure swagger,” relying on the charisma of its stars and the undeniable skill of Kosinski in directing action. The film doesn’t always delve deep into the intricacies of the sport or offer profound dramatic insights, prioritizing instead the adrenaline high and the “vintage cool” factor.
Overall Reception
“F1: The Movie” has garnered a mixed-to-positive critical reception, but audiences have responded very warmly, earning a high score on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes. Critics often agree that while the film might lack narrative depth or complexity, it thoroughly delivers as a high-octane, visually stunning entertainment experience. It’s frequently characterized as a perfect “bucket of popcorn movie” or a worthwhile “diversion” – an exciting ride that captivates with speed and the star power of Brad Pitt. The film’s ability to blend authentic racing footage with fictional drama seems to have resonated strongly with viewers looking for pure, thrilling cinema.
Whether it achieves the cultural impact of “Top Gun: Maverick” remains to be seen, but “F1: The Movie” certainly puts the pedal to the metal, offering audiences an exhilarating look at the demanding and dramatic world of Formula 1 racing.
Director: Joseph Kosinski
Writers: Ehren Kruger, Joseph Kosinski
Stars: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies
Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 2h 35m
Genres:* Action, Drama, Sport
References
- www.rogerebert.com
- screencrush.com
- variety.com
- <a href="https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/f1themovie”>www.rottentomatoes.com
- www.usatoday.com