Brad Pitt stars in thrilling F1 racing movie “F1: The Movie,” which brings the pulse of Formula One to cinemas this summer. The film, directed by Joseph Kosinski and featuring a talented cast including Brad Pitt, Javier Bardem, and Damson Idris, immerses audiences deep into the high-speed world of racing, offering a dazzling cinematic experience that stands out as one of the season’s top blockbusters.
Set in the electrifying environment of professional racing, the story follows Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, an established racecar driver known for his competitive edge and unique superstitions, like carrying a specific playing card in his pocket before big events. Hayes is approached by Ruben Cervantes, played by Javier Bardem, owner of the APXGP racing team, who needs Sonny to bring his expertise to the team. This sets in motion a dynamic journey, echoing classic sports narratives, where the seasoned veteran faces the challenge of reclaiming his former glory while mentoring new talent.
A Classic Sports Rivalry Drives the Narrative
Conflict arrives in the form of Joshua Pierce, portrayed by Damson Idris, Sonny’s much younger and ambitious teammate. Their on-and-off-track rivalry generates both tension and humor, highlighting the differences between experience and youthful audacity. The evolving dynamic between Hayes and Pierce serves as a central pillar for the film, as they must learn to rely on each other amidst fierce competition and personal struggles.

The film draws comparisons to “Top Gun: Maverick,” another Joseph Kosinski and Ehren Kruger collaboration, with a focus on high-caliber veterans confronting their past while guiding fresh recruits. Cinematographer Claudio Miranda and composer Hans Zimmer return to contribute their expertise, ensuring the racing scenes are just as visually dynamic and emotionally resonant as their previous action-packed projects.
Cinematic Action That Puts Viewers in the Driver’s Seat
Kosinski’s direction, paired with Miranda’s impressive cinematography and Zimmer’s adrenaline-pumping score, crafts visceral, edge-of-your-seat action. Racing sequences use driver point-of-view shots, cameras mounted to vehicles, sharp editing, and carefully orchestrated close-ups of the stars to convey the intensity of Formula One events. These techniques create an atmosphere where viewers genuinely feel the thrill of the race and the tension experienced by the characters.
Particularly notable are the shots that demonstrate Brad Pitt’s physical involvement behind the wheel, giving fans a close view of the stunts and the real danger surrounding each high-speed turn. The movie channels the kinetic energy of recent racing classics such as “Ford v Ferrari,” “Gran Turismo,” and “Rush.” Like its predecessors, “F1: The Movie” is designed to provide a full-throttle experience—especially on large-format screens such as IMAX or 4DX, where the power of the engines and the rush of wind heighten every scene.
Character-Driven Stakes Amid Relentless Speed
The script ensures that the central characters are never complacent, keeping the audience rooting for them as they face continual setbacks. Though Sonny starts as an elite driver, obstacles constantly threaten his progress, requiring personal growth and teamwork. The film provides well-timed character moments, though some scenes linger on Sonny’s backstory through the perspectives of others, slightly slowing down the story’s momentum.
Audience expectations for sports dramas are met—with underdog moments, dramatic mishaps, and perseverance through adversity. The predictability of certain plot points does not detract from the enjoyment, thanks to compelling performances from the cast and the film’s engaging style. With a brisk pace punctuated by energetic set pieces, the film often overcomes its lengthy runtime.
A Must-See Summer Blockbuster for Racing and Movie Fans Alike
“F1: The Movie” emerges as an appealing summer spectacle, with Brad Pitt anchoring the experience amid roaring engines and grand competition. The carefully constructed action, wise direction, and magnetic cast make it a prime choice for fans seeking high-octane drama and classic sports movie storytelling. The film’s dedication to technical authenticity and cinematic flair ensures its impact on both hardcore racing fans and general audiences.
The summer blockbuster’s memorable moments and emotional highs make it an ideal pick for group outings, thrilling action lovers and moviegoers alike. As the energy of Formula One racing speeds across the screen, “F1: The Movie” positions itself as a major contender for this year’s must-see films, delivering a celebration of resilience, teamwork, and the pursuit of greatness.
