Brad Pitt stars as Sonny Hayes in the upcoming film “F1,” directed by Joseph Kosinski. The movie follows Hayes, a former Formula One driver, as he mentors a young prodigy, Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. Emphasizing authenticity, Pitt drove at speeds exceeding 180 mph on real F1 tracks during filming. Produced with insights from F1 champion Lewis Hamilton, “F1” is set to release in theaters and IMAX on June 27, 2025.
The world of Formula One racing is set to receive a cinematic tribute with the upcoming film “F1,” starring Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for his work on “Top Gun: Maverick,” the film promises an authentic and exhilarating portrayal of the high-stakes world of Formula One racing. Scheduled for a theatrical release on June 27, 2025, “F1” has already generated significant buzz among racing enthusiasts and moviegoers alike.
“F1” centers around Sonny Hayes, portrayed by Brad Pitt, a former Formula One driver who returns to the racing circuit after a devastating crash in the 1990s. Hayes is invited back by his former teammate, Ruben (played by Javier Bardem), now the owner of the struggling APXGP team, to mentor the talented rookie Joshua Pearce, portrayed by Damson Idris. The narrative explores themes of redemption, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the high-octane world of Formula One racing.
Authenticity in Filming
One of the standout aspects of “F1” is its commitment to authenticity. The production team went to great lengths to ensure that the racing sequences accurately reflect the intensity and speed of real Formula One races. Filming took place during actual Grand Prix weekends, with the fictional APXGP team integrated seamlessly into the real-world F1 environment. This approach allowed the filmmakers to capture genuine racing action, providing audiences with an immersive experience that sets “F1” apart from previous racing films.
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer emphasized the film’s dedication to realism, stating that “F1” aims to be “the most accurate racing movie ever.” This authenticity is further enhanced by the involvement of Lewis Hamilton, who served as a producer and consultant, ensuring that the portrayal of the sport aligns with its real-life intricacies.
Brad Pitt’s Immersive Preparation
Brad Pitt’s dedication to his role as Sonny Hayes extended beyond traditional acting preparations. The 60-year-old actor underwent rigorous training to master the high-speed vehicles used in the film, reaching speeds over 180 mph on real Formula One tracks. Director Joseph Kosinski highlighted Pitt’s commitment, noting that the actor’s driving skills added a layer of authenticity to the film that is rarely achieved in Hollywood productions. This hands-on approach not only enhances the realism of the racing scenes but also demonstrates Pitt’s dedication to delivering a convincing performance.
Star-Studded Ensemble Cast
“F1” boasts a stellar ensemble cast that brings depth and diversity to the film’s narrative. Alongside Brad Pitt, the film features:
Javier Bardem as Ruben, the former teammate turned team owner who seeks Hayes’ expertise to revive his struggling team.
Damson Idris as Joshua Pearce, the talented rookie driver mentored by Hayes, navigating the pressures of the competitive racing world.
Kerry Condon as Kate, a key member of the APXGP team, adding emotional depth to the storyline.
Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, and Samson Kayo in supporting roles that enrich the film’s dynamic narrative.
This diverse cast brings a range of perspectives to the story, highlighting various facets of the Formula One ecosystem, from the corporate boardrooms to the pit lanes.
Integration of Real-Life F1 Elements
To further blur the lines between fiction and reality, “F1” incorporates appearances by real-life Formula One drivers, including Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz Jr. This integration adds a layer of authenticity and excitement for fans, as they witness their favorite drivers interacting within the film’s narrative. The production’s presence at actual F1 events allowed for genuine interactions and reactions, enriching the film’s realism.
Technical Excellence Behind the Scenes
The film’s commitment to technical excellence is evident in its collaboration with top-tier professionals:
Cinematography: Claudio Miranda, known for his work on visually stunning films, brings his expertise to capture the high-speed action authentically.
Production Design: Mark Tildesley and Ben Munro create immersive environments that reflect the glamour and grit of the Formula One world.
Editing: Stephen Mirrione’s precise editing ensures that the film’s pacing matches the adrenaline-fueled sequences on the track.
Music: Hans Zimmer’s score amplifies the emotional and thrilling aspects of the narrative, providing an auditory experience that complements the visual spectacle.
This collaboration of industry veterans ensures that “F1” delivers not only in storytelling but also in technical prowess, offering audiences a comprehensive cinematic experience.
“F1” is poised to offer audiences an immersive and authentic glimpse into the exhilarating world of Formula One racing. With Brad Pitt’s dedication to performing high-speed driving stunts, the involvement of F1 champion Lewis Hamilton as a producer, and the film’s commitment to realism by integrating real-life racing elements, “F1” stands out as a highly anticipated cinematic experience. The collaboration of a stellar cast and crew, combined with innovative filming techniques, ensures that “F1” will captivate both racing enthusiasts and general audiences alike. Mark your calendars for June 27, 2025, when “F1” speeds into theaters, promising an adrenaline-fueled journey that celebrates the passion, challenges, and triumphs inherent in the world of Formula One.
