F1 : The Movie
- Sacha L. Roy
- 13 hours ago
- 4 min read
Formula 1 has always been about speed, rivalries, and the smallest margins between victory and defeat. Now, Apple is bringing that world to the big screen with F1 The Movie. But does this film actually capture the magic of the sport, or is it just another Hollywood blockbuster using F1 as a backdrop?
RECAP
Sonny Hayes is a former Formula 1 driver whose promising career was cut short by a devastating crash. Years later, he's become a racer-for-hire, competing in events around the world and building a reputation for winning—and to refuse to touch or keep trophies out of superstition.
After winning the Daytona 500, Sonny is approached by his former teammate, Ruben Cervantes, now the owner of the struggling APeX GP Formula 1 team. With the board preparing to force a sale, if the team doesn’t win a race by the end of the season, Ruben asks Sonny to race the second half of the season and somehow deliver the team's first-ever Grand Prix victory.
Following a test drive, Sonny believes the car has potential and joins APeX alongside rookie Joshua Pearce. From his very first race back, he realizes the car simply isn't competitive enough, so he relies on unconventional tactics to create opportunities. Those aggressive strategies quickly create friction within the team, and after contact between the two teammates, both are forced to retire from the race.
Convinced the car needs better performance in traffic, Sonny pushes technical director Kate McKenna for aerodynamic upgrades. She refuses until he proves he can finish a race. During the next race, Sonny deliberately creates chaos by bringing out multiple Safety Cars. While his own race is ruined, the strategy allows Joshua to score the team's first championship points, earning Sonny the upgrades he wanted.
The following race, Sonny sacrifices his own result to put Joshua in position for victory. But, when it starts raining, Joshua ignores his teammate's advice, attempts an overtake, and suffers a terrifying crash that sidelines him for several races.
With the upgraded car, APeX becomes genuinely competitive, and the team gets improving results. However, Joshua's return only reignites the rivalry between the two drivers, and another collision leaves both out of the race.
Ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Kate convinces Sonny and Joshua to settle their differences over drinks and a poker game, with the winner earning lead-driver status for the race. Although Sonny could have won, he lets Joshua take the honor. Just before the race, the FIA questions the legality of APeX's new aerodynamic package, forcing the team to remove the upgrade. As the race start, Sonny climbs into the car without his lucky playing card and starts racing angry. The result is a violent crash that lands him in the hospital. Ruben realizes that his friend shouldn’t be driving with his medical file and takes Sonny off the team not wanting to risk his friends life.
Strength
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Let's start with what impressed me the most: the cinematography. Simply put, this movie is gorgeous. Every race feels fast, immersive and cinematic, with some truly breathtaking shots throughout. From the on-board cameras to the sweeping aerial views, you can tell the filmmakers wanted to capture the excitement and beauty of Formula 1, and they absolutely succeeded.
That authenticity comes from the production itself. Much of the movie was filmed during actual Grand Prix weekends with the cooperation of the Formula 1 teams, making the racing feel as real as possible. It's no surprise the film received four Academy Award nominations, ultimately winning Best Sound.
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As for the story, it may not reinvent the sports movie formula. It follows a familiar underdog structure: a struggling team begins to improve, suffers setbacks, and builds toward one final showdown. But familiar doesn't mean boring. Thanks to strong pacing, engaging characters, and exciting race sequences, the movie keeps you invested from beginning to end.
Finally, the soundtrack deserves some recognition. It perfectly complements the action, adds energy to the races, and steps back when not needed.
Weakness
Honestly, I don't have many negatives to point out, but the biggest one is the movie's plausibility.
If you're a Formula 1 fan, you'll probably notice that several race scenarios stretch credibility. The film often prioritizes drama over realism, and at times it goes a little too far. For example, it's hard to believe a driver could intentionally trigger multiple Safety Cars over the course of a race without facing serious penalties from the stewards.
My other minor complaint is Peter Banning, one of APXGP's major shareholders and antagonist. It might be a mix of how he was written, and played, but I just found him annoying. Thankfully, he doesn't take up much screen time, so it never becomes a major distraction.
Acting
Beyond Brad Pitt and Javier Bardem, the cast may not be filled with household names, but the performances are consistently strong across the board.
Third star : Sarah Niles as Bernadette Pearce - While she doesn't get a huge amount of screen time, she brings warmth and sincerity to every scene
Second star : Abdul Salis as Dodge - He plays the part perfectly, and his bit of comic relifand often provides the perfect bit of comic relief without ever feeling out of place.
First star : Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes - This movie simply doesn't work without a believable lead, and Brad Pitt delivers exactly that. He perfectly balances Sonny's confidence, experience, and vulnerability
Final Verdict
F1 The Movie is easily Apple's most successful film to date, and in my opinion, it deserves all the praise it has received.
Even if you're not a F1 fan, there's a good chance you'll still enjoy this movie. Between the spectacular racing sequences, strong performances, and entertaining story, there's something here for just about everyone.
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