As the highly anticipated Formula 1 film makes its debut, here are some key aspects to look out for in this blockbuster production.
Starring Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, the film introduces a fictional 11th team into the F1 paddock. Notably, filming was seamlessly integrated into actual F1 races during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, lending an unparalleled level of realism to the on-screen action.
The stellar cast also features Damson Idris and Kerry Condon, all working under the seasoned direction of Joseph Kosinski and the producing prowess of Jerry Bruckheimer.
Brad Pitt, Kerry Condon, and Damson Idris attending the F1 movie European premiere in London.
The project received strong support from the Formula 1 community, partly due to Lewis Hamilton`s involvement as a producer. He encouraged fellow drivers to cooperate with the extensive filming that took place amidst intense championship battles.
With the film now released, designed to captivate both dedicated F1 enthusiasts and newcomers alike, let`s delve into some elements worth noting, without giving away any major plot spoilers!
Lewis Hamilton`s Profound Influence
Lewis Hamilton`s association with the film has been central since the project`s inception in 2021. As a producer, the seven-time world champion played a crucial role in securing cooperation from F1`s leadership and fellow drivers, convincing them to welcome Hollywood into the sport`s exclusive environment.
Hamilton`s commitment to ensuring the film`s authenticity, by providing guidance to director Joseph Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer, has recently been highlighted with new details emerging post-release.
Kosinski revealed in June the depth of Hamilton`s technical insight, specifically citing a scene set at the iconic Hungaroring circuit in Budapest.
“He was involved in all the technical details, offering fascinating advice,” Kosinski stated. “For example, at Hungary, he advised that if Brad`s character were to allow a blue-flag pass to be as tight as possible, he would only do so at Turn 6.”
This level of specific detail, coming from a seven-time world champion who intimately understands the sport, was deemed invaluable and unattainable from any other source.
Hamilton`s impact wasn`t limited to technical precision; Kosinski also credited the British driver for inspiring a pivotal scene where Pitt`s character, Sonny Hayes, discusses his motivations for racing.
“Lewis also contributed to the story,” Kosinski added. “There`s a moment where Sonny Hayes reflects on why he races, almost touching on the spiritual aspect of it. That was inspired by a conversation with Lewis. His involvement has been incredible; we simply couldn`t have made the film without him.”
The “Unsung Heroes”: Brundle and Croft
While many F1 personalities make appearances, the commentary duo of David Croft and Martin Brundle are a near-constant presence in the film. They fulfill a critical role, especially for viewers less familiar with Formula 1, by elucidating the on-track action.
Director Kosinski explained that their real-life F1 commentary style inspired their use in the film for delivering essential information.
“If you listen to their real race commentary, you`ll notice how subtly they cover Formula 1 basics,” the director observed. “This ensures that first-time viewers grasp the fundamentals, while long-time fans still receive the detailed specificity that keeps them engaged.”
Kosinski was profoundly inspired by their broadcasting approach, conducting numerous sessions with them. He regards them as “the unsung heroes of this movie.”
“As you watch, you`ll see how they guide an audience with no prior F1 knowledge through the story, all while maintaining their authentic and distinctive voices,” he concluded.
“Cheating” Concerns: An F1 Insider`s View
During a film screening for F1 media at the Canadian Grand Prix in June, a notable concern emerged: whether certain plot elements might inadvertently glorify rule-breaking within the sport.
Kosinski clarified that all racing scenarios depicted were rooted in actual F1 history, though he acknowledged deliberately pushing creative boundaries.
“We extensively discussed this with Lewis [Hamilton]—the concept of the `line`,” Kosinski explained. “We never intended for Sonny to cheat. Our goal was to explore how far we could push the narrative to the very edge without crossing it.”
The director emphasized the significant challenge of navigating this fine line in the racing sequences.
F1 President Stefano Domenicali, however, dismissed these concerns, attributing them to a “very F1 eyes” perspective. He asserted that general audiences, less immersed in the sport`s intricacies, would simply enjoy the drama.
“I understand the concern, but it`s a view held by very dedicated F1 fans,” Domenicali stated. “For the broader audience, this won`t be perceived as cheating. It will be seen as intense racing action and authentic competition, and I am quite sure of that outcome.”
Historical Tributes: Nods to F1`s Past
Despite being set in the contemporary era, the film ingeniously incorporates tributes to some of Formula 1`s most iconic figures and historic locations.
Archival footage was skillfully integrated to feature three-time world champion and F1 legend Ayrton Senna within the storyline.
“Having immersed myself in this world for four years and spoken with Lewis, I know every F1 driver speaks of the early 1990s era and its engines, and Ayrton Senna is, of course, an icon,” Kosinski elaborated. “For me, the chance to tell a story involving Senna and to hear the distinct sound of those V12 engines was an incredible opportunity. It`s a subtle moment for those who deeply appreciate the sport`s history.”
Another subtle historical reference includes the banking that was once part of Italy`s famous Monza circuit, a feature prominently showcased in the 1966 F1-inspired film, Grand Prix.
Kosinski added that classic films like Grand Prix and Le Mans served as “touchstones” for this project.
“Those movies are almost 60 years old, yet you can still watch them and marvel at the cinematography and the sense of immersion, because the filming was genuinely practical,” he explained. “The entirely practical approach of this film was inspired by those classics. I`m pleased you noticed the Monza banking scene; I specifically wanted to include that as a nod to our inspirations.”
The Prospect of a Sequel
If you`ve watched the film and are eager for more, there might be good news regarding future big-screen F1 action.
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has expressed that both he and director Kosinski would be delighted to create a follow-up, adding that Brad Pitt would readily embrace the chance for more time on the race track.
“It ultimately depends on the audience,” Bruckheimer remarked. “If they show up, then certainly, we`d love to make another one. And I`m sure Brad would too. He truly disliked getting out of that car, I must tell you.”
He playfully recounted,
“That was my happiest day and his saddest day! I`m so glad he was safe getting out, but he wanted to get right back in.”
Marcus Prine