F1 review: Brad Pitt is a racing maverick in formulaic Formula 1 movie

As an ardent admirer, I’d say that the cinematic experience of F1 is a sports narrative at its finest, yet, the recurring aspects inherent in Formula 1 racing and the narrative itself can sometimes turn this high-speed film into a rather tedious journey.

Among all the extraordinary films this summer, featuring Superman, dinosaurs, a remarkable family, rage-filled zombies, and an Elvis-loving alien, it’s possible that Formula One could be the most implausible movie of the season.

The main idea revolves around an elderly man, roughly in his 60s, operating a Formula 1 car, which seems utterly implausible. Yet, Brad Pitt‘s fame is so immense that the film barely addresses this inconsistency, merely mentioning a few veteran drivers of yesteryear and making light of the senior’s situation.

The character in the new film plays a crucial role, making it an essential element for your viewing experience of F1. However, your appreciation of this fictional racing story may hinge on your ability to set aside reality and embrace a touch of imaginative liberty.

What is F1 about?

Pitt portrays Sonny Hayes, a character who begins the movie by triumphantly winning the 24-hour race at Daytona. However, instead of celebrating his victory, Sonny promptly flees town, reflecting his nature as an individual who consistently reinvents himself.

However, the arrival of Ruben Cervantes (played by Javier Bardem) shifts everything drastically, bringing forth an intriguing proposition along with a significant amount of background details.

Ruben currently heads up the APX Grand Prix Team, but recent turmoil within the management and on the racetrack has resulted in a staggering financial loss of $350 million for him. Currently, APXGP is at the bottom of the rankings and hasn’t managed to secure a top 10 position yet. Their star driver has departed, leaving an inexperienced newcomer as his replacement. Unless Cervantes manages to pull off some victories soon, he risks losing the team altogether.

Sonny suggests that Ruben might require a fresh skateboard. However, Ruben replies that he actually needs a new car. This situation offers Hayes a unique chance, along with the possibility for him to correct past mistakes.

In keeping with the usual procedure in such circumstances, Sonny initially declines the call. However, given that this is a typical sports film, Hayes doesn’t hesitate for long before picking up that call, stepping over the racing line, and making an effort to help Ruben change his fate before the end of the season.

Rookie vs Maverick

Sonny is developed with depth, including a background, traits, vulnerabilities, and assets, along with a hidden truth; however, the latest addition to the team, Joshua Pearce, portrayed by Damson Idris, appears rather flat and one-dimensional.

A youthful driver from Britain named Josh seems immature and isn’t inclined to value the opportunity his boss provides by offering a “second lease on life” to an older individual, instead of pairing him with a more competitively-minded peer.

It’s evident he’s playing cleverly, yet his actions – such as crashing a car during initial training laps, performing risky moves during his debut race, and disregarding the rules in a way that portrays him as shrewd but also puts Hayes in a dangerous light as an irresponsible rule-breaker – suggest more of a reckless and untrustworthy character.

As a gamer, I’ll tell you this: At first, we’re constantly butting heads, both on and off the virtual tracks. But I won’t give away the ending; you’ll have to see it for yourself. If you’ve ever watched a sports flick or any other Jerry Bruckheimer masterpiece like Days of Thunder or Top Gun, you might already predict where our tale is headed.

Sonny vs Lewis and Max

One distinctive factor that differentiates F1 from comparable genres is the advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment director Joseph Kosinski has access to, which allows for the filming of scenes involving and near actual Formula 1 race cars.

Additionally, he had the skill to fire at the real Grand Prix races, where make-believe figures competed against renowned drivers such as Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Fernando Alonso.

Enhancing the realism, it makes the events feel more genuine, allowing spectators to experience the races alongside Josh and Sonny.

However, this focus on intricacies in Formula 1 can make race days quite complex, especially for those unfamiliar with the workings of the Drag Reduction System, issues related to dirty air, or the distinctions between hard and soft tires. In such cases, you might find yourself puzzled.

The problem with Formula 1

Additionally, one aspect that requires attention is the inherent structure of Formula 1 racing, contrasting significantly with the sport. In Formula 1, there are extended periods between races, whereas here, we’re presented with a fresh competition every 15-20 minutes, leading to a repetitive viewing experience due to its frequent occurrence.

The recurring pattern of events in this narrative doesn’t make it any easier to manage. For instance, having one driver involved in an accident and hospitalized is tolerable, but having two seems excessive. Likewise, a solitary safety car period works well, yet more than one begins to feel redundant.

In a male-dominated sport where testosterone reigns supreme, it’s important to shine a light on women often overlooked due to their gender. One such person is Kate McKenna (Kerry Condon), the first female Technical Director in Formula 1, who stands out as an intriguing figure beyond her romantic roles.

However, it’s worth noting that character Jodie from APX mechanic is also seemingly underappreciated, almost as if it were a secondary thought. This gives the movie a sense of repetition or stagnation, mirroring the circular patterns seen in the actions of the film’s main characters.

Is F1 good?

The F1 race lasts for approximately 155 minutes, which seems excessively lengthy, given that the movie portrays a rather straightforward tale about competitors setting aside their disagreements to unite as a team.

However, the film boasts two compelling aspects – captivating Formula 1 race footage that immerses you into the cockpit on racing day, and the presence of Brad Pitt.

In a familiar display of talent, he’s presenting a performance that exudes an easygoing, relaxed, arrogant, yet cool demeanor, much like Hayes. However, the captivating allure he infuses into Sonny is undeniably compelling, making it impossible not to be drawn in, and strong enough to guide F1 to the finish line.

F1 score: 3/5

As a gamer putting my thoughts together, let me say that I find it odd how long it’s taking for this simple storyline to unfold, or how many races I’ve played through. However, once Brad Pitt appears on screen and the film finally gets to its core, F1 is undeniably the champion.

2025-06-25 14:49