Get ready to buckle up as Hollywood heavyweights Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, in a long-awaited collaboration, take audiences on a high-speed journey in the much-anticipated film F1. This exhilarating cinematic experience dives deep into the world of motorsport, showcasing the passion and adrenaline that comes with racing.
Brad Pitt has long harbored a dream of being part of a film centered around racing. In an interview, he expressed how timing and passion finally aligned to bring this project to life. “I just gotta trust timing, you know,” Pitt shared with Blavity’s Shadow and Act. “I’m so grateful. I mean, for two decades, I’ve been trying to do [a film like this], whether it was on motorcycles or cars… I’ve tried everything, and, for whatever reason, it never came to fruition.”
After years of waiting, Pitt received a call from director Joseph Kosinski with a unique concept that reignited his passion for racing films. He spent a year and a half immersing himself in the sport, preparing for a role that would not only challenge him but also thrill audiences worldwide.
The film’s official synopsis reveals a gripping narrative: In the 1990s, Sonny Hayes (played by Pitt) was hailed as Formula 1’s most promising driver until a devastating accident nearly ended his career. Fast forward thirty years, and the owner of a struggling Formula 1 team persuades Sonny to return to the track and reclaim his title as the best in the world. Alongside rookie driver Joshua Pearce (Idris), Sonny embarks on a personal journey of redemption, learning that the path to reclaiming his title is fraught with challenges that cannot be faced alone.
Damson Idris, known for his standout performance as Franklin Saint in the acclaimed series “Snowfall,” takes on a pivotal role in F1. This film could be the launchpad that propels him from a television star to a bona fide movie icon. Pitt praised Idris, stating, “He’s so damn charming, that guy. You just wanna smack him.” Idris portrays Joshua Pearce, the ambitious rookie driver who partners with Pitt’s character to elevate their struggling team, APXGP, to the forefront of the racing world.
Throughout the film, Sonny faces numerous obstacles, including a near-fatal crash that puts both his and Joshua’s lives at risk. Flashbacks from his traumatic past haunt him, but with determination and teamwork, Sonny and Joshua strive to overcome these hurdles. As they gear up for a critical race, an insider leaks sensitive documents, triggering an investigation that complicates their journey.
Sonny’s former racing partner-turned-boss, Ruben Cervantes (played by Javier Bardem), discovers a medical condition that could jeopardize Sonny’s life and career. Faced with the prospect of being barred from racing, Sonny is offered a lucrative deal by board member Peter Banning (Tobias Menzies). However, he chooses to pursue one last chance at redemption, ultimately leading to a triumphant victory alongside Joshua.
The film also explores a budding romance between Sonny and APXGP race director Kate (Kerry Condon). Their chemistry adds another layer to the story, but as Sonny’s journey unfolds, he finds himself back on the road, heading to Mexico City for yet another race. This journey symbolizes more than just a quest for the F1 title; it represents Sonny’s deep-rooted passion for racing.
F1 The Movie is now in theaters worldwide, inviting audiences to experience the thrill of the race like never before.
Fact over Fiction:
Is Brad Pitt Actually Driving in the ‘F1’ Movie?
Yes, both Brad Pitt and Damson Idris are genuinely behind the wheel in F1. According to USA Today, they dedicated four months to learning how to drive Formula 1 cars. Director Joe Kosinski noted, “If you see Brad’s face, then it’s him driving, and often at speeds up to around 180 mph. The G-forces on their bodies were insane.”
Is Sonny Hayes a Real Character?
While Sonny Hayes is a fictional character, his story draws inspiration from real-life events in the racing world. Some elements of his injury may be reminiscent of the experiences of real Formula 1 driver Martin Donnelly, as reported by Screen Rant.
