There are few things more thrilling than watching a group of wealthy athletes race on uniquely designed tracks in stunning locations, competing with sheer instinct, advanced engineering, and tactical acumen.
This passion has led me to sacrifice sleep, money, and even my sanity. So, when I heard that Lewis Hamilton, arguably the greatest and most decorated driver ever, was producing a Formula One (F1) film, I knew I had to see it.
Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for “Top Gun: Maverick,” and featuring Brad Pitt from “Fight Club” and “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” the movie titled “F1” runs just over two and a half hours and was a rollercoaster of emotions.
Pros
2024 Season Cameos (+)
“F1” is set during the real 2024 Formula One season, much like the NBA’s “Hustle.” The film includes actual races, with real drivers, team leaders, and presenters appearing as themselves in minor roles. For F1 fans, this was a treat, capturing the excitement of the memorable season and featuring key figures from the sport.
Soundtrack (+)
Sound plays a crucial role in a race car movie, and “F1” executed it wonderfully. With a score by Hans Zimmer and a diverse soundtrack featuring genres from rap to country-rock, the music truly stood out.
Visuals (+)
Kosinski excels at visuals. The editing, on-board angles, and the overall portrayal of Formula One were all top-notch, creating an immersive experience reminiscent of the “Top Gun” films. During the racing scenes, you may even find yourself holding your breath.
Cons
Realism (-)
Despite efforts to establish the fictional team APX GP as realistic, the sport’s portrayal lacked authenticity. The movie took a significant cheating scandal, “Crashgate,” and used it as a primary plot point, which could be likened to making a film about the NFL with a team winning by deflating balls.
Stagnation (-)
Brad Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, portrayed as a “lovable rogue,” was more one-dimensional and boring. Unlike his co-star Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris, who showcased growth and complexity throughout the film, Hayes remained static and predictable.
Romantic Plotline (-)
While it was exciting to see a female technical director, her character was disappointingly reduced to a romantic subplot, largely agreeing with Hayes and climaxing in a romantic encounter, failing to address real issues women face in motorsport.
Conclusion
In summary, “F1” offers a summer blockbuster vibe, similar to the “Top Gun” franchise. While it’s great for newcomers to the world of Formula One, those seeking a more authentic and in-depth portrayal might be left wanting. Personally, while I enjoyed the cameos and the fun of sharing my passion, I felt the film leaned more towards Hollywood spectacle than a true representation of the sport.
Rating: 5/10
