F1 Review: Brad Pitt leads a slightly long but exhilerating and very satisfying old school movie that’s full of heart

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Plot

The story revolves around Sonny Hayes, portrayed by Brad Pitt, a former Formula 1 racer who retired following a tragic accident in the ’90s. At present, he’s a man in his 50s leading a tranquil life, using racing and gambling as means to sustain himself. Ruben, an old acquaintance (Javier Bardem) who oversees the struggling APXGP team, persuades Sonny to rejoin Formula 1 to help them out of their predicament.

In a simplified manner: Sonny is assigned to guide and coach Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), an up-and-coming but cocky race driver. As the Grand Prix season progresses, Sonny and Joshua need to work together closely to secure a top-three finish for their team. Throughout the season, Sonny builds a strong relationship with Kate McKenna (Kerry Condon), who is a member of the technical crew.

The narrative focuses on Sonny and Joshua’s mission to transform APXGP into a formidable racing entity. Along the way, Sonny grapples with his history, while Joshua discovers the value of faith in his guide.

What Works for F1

Without a doubt, the racing sequences in Formula One are truly outstanding and meticulously filmed. When the drivers are competing, each race feels genuine and thrilling. The music by Hans Zimmer enhances the energy, complementing the swift action flawlessly. The film effectively portrays the tension of Formula One racing through its quick decisions and hazardous moments that keep viewers captivated. The off-track drama, particularly the developing relationship between Sonny and Joshua, provides the narrative with the necessary depth. Kosinski’s direction is technically impressive, as the sharp cinematography and seamless editing make the races engaging to watch. Lastly, the appearance of Formula One legends like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen adds an authentic touch to the movie-watching experience.

What Doesn’t Work for F1

The film exceeds a running time of 150 minutes, making it seem excessively long. Certain parts, particularly those in the midsection, rehash similar conflicts, thereby slowing down the tempo. The storyline is foreseeable. The significant turns are evident from the beginning, diminishing the element of surprise. The Formula One commentary is another concern; it primarily concentrates on Sonny’s team, disregarding other competitors, which appears unrealistic and disruptive. Reducing the runtime and adjusting the commentary could have enhanced the viewing experience. Despite its flaws, F1 manages to work well and soar high.

F1 Delivers A Thrilling And Enthralling Experience That Can Be Best Enjoyed In An IMAX Screen

Performances in F1

In a more casual, readable manner: Brad Pitt plays Sonny, a charismatic yet intense character, with great skill. He portrays a skilled driver who exudes confidence and carries emotional depth. Damson Idris is captivating to watch as Joshua. The chemistry between Brad Pitt and Damson Idris adds the most thrilling scenes to the movie.

Javier Bardem gives a strong portrayal as the character Ruben, standing out amongst the top-tier acting talent featured in this racing film. Kerry Condon shines brightly as Kate, while supporting actors also deliver commendable performances.

Final Verdict of F1

The movie F1 offers a thrilling and engaging experience, boasting stunning visuals and a powerful soundtrack. Its racing scenes and character interactions make it well worth watching. However, its extended length, foreseeable plotline, and inconsistent dialogue detract slightly from its overall appeal. Despite these minor drawbacks, F1 remains a highly competent film that is best appreciated on an IMAX screen. Formula 1 enthusiasts will find particular enjoyment in it, not only for the movie itself but also because they get to see their favorite drivers on the big screen.

F1 plays in theatres now.

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2025-06-25 07:37