Open Extended Reactions: Hollywood Embraces Formula One
Formula One is poised to make a grand entrance into Hollywood in 2025 with the release of “F1,” a star-studded film featuring Brad Pitt, Jerry Bruckheimer, Joseph Kosinski (director of “Top Gun: Maverick”), and none other than Lewis Hamilton as an executive producer.
Given unprecedented access to the sport over the past year, the film promises to immerse audiences in the adrenaline-pumping world of Formula One, capturing the skill and heroism of the drivers while showcasing the intense competition and challenges they face.
Authenticity as a Key Touchstone
The filmmakers have emphasized authenticity as a guiding principle for the movie. The fictional team APXGP, in which Pitt plays a character, has its own garage strategically positioned between Mercedes and Ferrari at Silverstone, complete with a motorhome used for filming scenes and as a base of operations for the crew.
Javier Bardem, who portrays APXGP’s team boss, has also been spotted filming scenes on the grid at Silverstone, including a brief interaction with Red Bull boss Christian Horner.
Captivating Trailer Hints at Cinematic Brilliance
The 97-second trailer debuted at Silverstone, tantalizing viewers with a glimpse into the movie’s world. Queen’s “We Will Rock You” blares over race footage as Pitt’s character, Hayes, engages in a conversation with Irish actress Kerry Condon, who plays F1’s first female technical director.
Hayes’ memorable line, “Safe? Who said anything about safe?,” sets the tone for the film’s high-octane and competitive nature.
Despite minor criticisms of the trailer dialogue, the filmmakers’ commitment to realism is evident in the authentic race footage that complements the scripted interactions.
Lewis Hamilton’s Vital Role
Hamilton’s involvement as an executive producer has been instrumental in ensuring the film’s accuracy. He emphasizes the desire to convey the essence of Formula One and believes “F1” will be the first movie to truly capture the speed and drama of a grand prix.
Pitt and co-star Damson Idris have undergone rigorous training, actually driving modified Formula 2 cars to achieve the realistic on-track scenes that will be seamlessly blended into real footage.
Driver Cameos and Paddock Integration
Similar to the popular Netflix series “Drive to Survive,” “F1” will offer viewers a glimpse into the inner workings of the Formula One paddock. With the support of Liberty Media, owners of F1, every team and driver has collaborated on this project.
Pitt and Idris have made appearances in the TV media pen, interviewing drivers after qualifying and races. Fernando Alonso even had a memorable moment during filming when he patted Pitt on the back. Alonso, along with every driver on the current grid, is expected to make an appearance in the film.
The integration extends beyond the drivers, with former Haas boss Guenther Steiner making a cameo in the trailer and Pitt and Idris attending driver briefings.
Hollywood Meets Formula One: An Exciting Fusion
“F1” promises to be a groundbreaking cinematic experience, blending the star power of Hollywood with the thrilling world of Formula One. With Brad Pitt’s involvement, the film has the potential to reach a wider audience and showcase the sport in an unprecedented way.
The emphasis on authenticity, the input from Lewis Hamilton, and the participation of Formula One teams and drivers suggest that “F1” will be a must-see for fans of racing, cinema, and adrenaline-fueled entertainment.
