F1 film given honest reaction as critics pile in on Brad Pitt and L…read more
The upcoming Formula 1 film starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, co-produced by F1 icon Lewis Hamilton, is already generating significant buzz ahead of its official release on June 25, 2025. Early reactions from critics who were granted exclusive screenings of the high-octane sports drama suggest that the film could be a major cinematic event for racing fans and general audiences alike. While many were initially skeptical of Hollywood’s foray into the ultra-technical world of Formula 1, the film appears to be exceeding expectations.
According to early reviewers, the film — which is still under wraps title-wise and simply referred to as F1 — delivers a visceral and gripping portrayal of the sport. Jazz Tangcay of Variety shared an enthusiastic first reaction on social media, writing: “WOW! [The F1 movie] is an action-packed thrilling look at the world of F1 racing, with lots of grit. The sound, score and cinematography are flawless. Damson Idris and Brad Pitt are great! Absolutely Obsessedddddd.” This high praise sets the tone for what audiences might expect from the film: not just a racing drama, but a full-bodied cinematic experience.
The project, directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by legendary filmmaker Jerry Bruckheimer, has drawn comparisons to Top Gun: Maverick, the duo’s previous massive hit. That film combined adrenaline-pumping aerial sequences with grounded human storytelling — a formula they seem to have replicated successfully on the racetrack. Clayton Davis, awards editor for Variety, echoed that sentiment, highlighting the strong performances of the lead actors. “F1 the Movie is the Jerry and Joe Show! Bruckheimer and Kosinski really do make audacious entertainment together. Academy…don’t do Claudio Miranda dirty again on this one. Brad Pitt and Damson Idris shine brightest when sharing the screen. Race to see this one in IMAX,” he urged.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the film is its authenticity. Lewis Hamilton, who has been deeply involved in the production as a consultant and co-producer, has worked closely with the filmmakers to ensure that the depiction of the sport is as realistic as possible. This level of detail is evident in the trailers, which feature jaw-dropping onboard camera shots and actual F1 race tracks. The commitment to accuracy, combined with cutting-edge filmmaking techniques, seems to have paid off.
Erik Davis of Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes also praised the film’s energy and craftsmanship. “Joseph Kosinski’s F1 the Movie hits the gas and doesn’t stop,” he wrote. “The races are epic, the sound design, editing, cinematography, performances and music are all top notch. You definitely feel shades of Top Gun: Maverick in that it plays like an old school summer blockbuster. What a ride.”
While it’s unlikely the film will match the broader cultural impact of Netflix’s Drive to Survive — the documentary series that helped bring a new wave of fans to the sport — F1 has a different kind of appeal. It blends Hollywood star power with real F1 elements, including appearances from current drivers and real team involvement. Though fictional, the movie presents a hyper-realistic world that bridges the gap between fans of the sport and general cinema-goers.
With its official worldwide release set for June 25, 2025, F1 looks poised to be one of the year’s major blockbusters. Whether you’re a die-hard Formula 1 enthusiast or just someone looking for a thrilling ride at the cinema, this film may be well worth the price of admission — even if it includes a popcorn tub big enough to get lost in.
