On June 27, 2025, the world of Formula One racing revved into high gear as F1, a thrilling new sports drama, made its highly anticipated debut in theaters. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, whose previous successes include Top Gun: Maverick, the film brings the adrenaline-pumping action of F1 racing to the big screen with heart-stopping visuals, gripping storylines, and a star-studded cast that promises to captivate both racing fans and moviegoers alike.
A Plot That Speaks to the Heart of Racing
F1 follows Sonny Hayes, played by Brad Pitt, a once-promising racing prodigy who finds himself pulled back into the world of high-speed motorsport after a long period of absence. This narrative of redemption mirrors the intense pursuit of personal growth and the battle against internal and external forces that many athletes face throughout their careers. As Hayes partners with rookie driver Joshua Pearce (played by Damson Idris), the film delves into the rivalries, challenges, and sacrifices inherent in the cutthroat world of Formula One racing.
The film doesn’t just focus on the sport but also highlights the intricate relationships behind the scenes—focusing on a diverse array of characters, from team owners to engineers and drivers, whose lives are intertwined by the high-stakes world they inhabit. The film’s standout performances are complemented by stunning visual effects and authentic racing sequences, offering audiences a realistic portrayal of what it’s like to drive in one of the most dangerous and thrilling sports in the world.
A Cast Built for Speed
In addition to Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, F1 boasts a phenomenal supporting cast that includes Javier Bardem as Ruben Cervantes, the charismatic and cunning team owner; Kerry Condon as Kate McKenna, a sharp, visionary technical director; and Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, Shea Whigham, and Sarah Niles, who add further layers to the narrative with their nuanced performances.
One of the film’s most exciting aspects is its incorporation of real-world Formula One talent. The movie features cameos from several current F1 drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, as they play fictionalized versions of themselves within the film’s racing world. The inclusion of these real-life drivers lends an added sense of authenticity, as the audience is transported directly into the high-octane world of professional racing.
Behind the Wheel: Filming Real Racing
F1 also stands out in its commitment to realism, with Kosinski and his team going to great lengths to capture the real thrill of Formula One racing. Several of the racing sequences were filmed using actual F1 cars on real tracks, providing an authenticity that CGI often fails to replicate. The team collaborated closely with F1 engineers to ensure that the technical aspects of the sport were portrayed accurately, from car mechanics to track dynamics.
This focus on realism not only appeals to motorsport enthusiasts but also serves to introduce the thrilling world of F1 to a broader audience. The breathtaking action sequences combined with compelling human drama create a cinematic experience that promises to engage viewers long after the credits roll.
Where to Watch: A Global Release
F1 is now playing in theaters across the globe and will eventually be available on Apple TV+ for streaming. Its mix of star power, high-speed action, and heartfelt storytelling positions it to be one of the standout films of the year, garnering attention from racing fans and cinephiles alike.