If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re inside a Formula 1 car, F1: The Movie is your ticket. Starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, this racing drama mixes heart-pounding action with a story about second chances. It’s a new type of movie, packed with adrenaline from start to finish.
Brad Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a retired Formula One driver who is pulled back into the sport to help a struggling racing team co-owned by his former racing partner. He’s paired with rookie Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris, and the two must figure out how to work together. There’s high-speed racing, team drama, and just enough romance to keep things interesting without giving away the ending.
The racing scenes are the movie’s biggest win. Shot at real F1 events, the footage makes you feel the speed, hear every engine roar, and almost smell the burning rubber. Pitt brings a veteran’s edge to Sonny, while Idris nails the role of the fiery rookie. Their mentor–rival energy keeps the story engaging.
As a unique take on the racing genre, the film truly makes you feel like you’re in the driver’s seat with Sonny Hayes as he tears around the track. For those who might not keep up with the intense racing sequences, the drama between the characters is enough to keep anyone hooked. Director Joseph Kosinski, who also helmed Top Gun: Maverick, makes every shot visually stunning, while Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack turns each race into a pulse-pounding moment.
Even though the racing sequences bring excitement, the plot follows a fairly familiar and overused “comeback” story, which leaves many side characters underdeveloped. Some of the racing talk is also overexplained, which, while informative, disrupts the otherwise fast-moving pace of the film.
F1: The Movie is a thrilling ride with jaw-dropping visuals and strong performances. Whether you’re a racing fan or not, it’s worth seeing on the biggest screen possible.