Joseph Kosinski's "F1," starring Brad Pitt, has officially crossed the finish line, delivering a compelling sports drama that blends the adrenaline of Formula 1 racing with a classic underdog narrative. Released on June 27, 2025, after premiering on June 16, the film has garnered positive reviews, particularly for its immersive racing sequences and Pitt's central performance.
Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a former Formula One driver whose promising career was cut short by a severe accident in the 1990s. Haunted by what could have been, Hayes finds himself drifting through various racing circuits, his glory days seemingly behind him. However, an unexpected opportunity arises when his former Team Lotus teammate, Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), now the owner of the struggling APXGP F1 team, seeks him out. APXGP is the perennial backmarker, a team in desperate need of a spark to avoid being sold off to investors.
Cervantes convinces Hayes to return to Formula One, offering him a chance to reignite his passion and save the team. Hayes is paired with Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), a young, talented, but headstrong rookie driver. Pearce is initially skeptical of Hayes, viewing him as an aging has-been, but the two eventually form a bond as they work together to improve APXGP's performance. Kerry Condon stars as Kate McKenna, the APXGP technical director.
"F1" doesn't break new ground in the sports movie genre, but it executes familiar beats effectively. The film immerses viewers in the world of Formula 1, showcasing the high-stakes competition, technological intricacies, and intense pressure faced by drivers and teams. The racing sequences are a particular highlight, with Kosinski employing innovative camera techniques to capture the speed and G-forces experienced by the drivers. Pitt and Idris underwent extensive training, even driving modified Formula 2 cars at iconic circuits like Silverstone, to ensure the authenticity of their performances. Actual F1 drivers and team principals make cameo appearances, further enhancing the film's realism.
The filming locations add to the authenticity, with the crew embedding themselves at real Grand Prix weekends throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Key circuits featured include Silverstone, Spa-Francorchamps, Monza, Mexico City, the Hungaroring, Suzuka, Zandvoort, and Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi. Daytona International Speedway in Florida also features early in the film.
Beyond the racing action, "F1" explores themes of redemption, mentorship, and teamwork. Hayes seeks to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level, while also guiding Pearce to become a more mature and strategic driver. The film also delves into the personal sacrifices and challenges faced by those involved in the demanding world of Formula 1.
While some critics note that the film adheres to familiar sports movie tropes and contains some plot inconsistencies, the consensus is that "F1" delivers an entertaining and visually stunning experience. Brad Pitt's performance is a major draw, with many praising his ability to embody the weathered and determined Sonny Hayes. The dynamic between Pitt and Idris is also a highlight, as their characters navigate their rivalry and eventual camaraderie.
For Formula 1 enthusiasts, "F1" offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the sport, with unprecedented access to real racing events and personnel. However, even for those unfamiliar with Formula 1, the film's universal themes and thrilling action make it a worthwhile cinematic experience. Director Joseph Kosinski said that the aim was to "make the most realistic racing movie we've seen". The film may well have achieved that goal.
