F1 The Movie (2025) Movie: A Critical Review of F1

The world of Formula 1 racing has always captivated audiences with its blend of speed, danger, and human drama. Director Joseph Kosinski brings this electrifying sport to the big screen with F1 The Movie (2025). This high-speed drama stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a veteran Formula 1 driver who comes out of retirement to mentor a young hotshot and lead a struggling racing team.

Jerry Bruckheimer and Apple Original Films produced this racing spectacle in partnership with Formula 1 itself. The film features Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, and Kerry Condon in key supporting roles. With Lewis Hamilton serving as producer, the movie promises authentic racing action that puts you right in the driver’s seat.

Plot and Storyline

The story follows Sonny Hayes, dubbed the greatest that never was. He was Formula 1’s most promising driver in the 1990s until a devastating crash ended his career. Thirty years later, Hayes lives as a nomad, racing in lower-tier events and refusing to settle down.

His former teammate Ruben (Javier Bardem) approaches him with an opportunity to return to Formula 1 with the fictional APXGP team. The team is struggling and on the verge of collapse, making this Hayes’ last shot at redemption.

Hayes reluctantly agrees to make a comeback, not just as a driver but as a mentor to Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris). This young and talented but inexperienced driver needs guidance to reach his potential in the sport’s most demanding environment.

Cast Performance

Brad Pitt delivers a solid performance as Sonny Hayes, bringing his trademark charisma to a character dealing with past trauma. He effectively portrays the internal struggle of a man caught between his love for racing and the scars from his past. Pitt captures both the confidence of a former champion and the vulnerability of someone trying to prove he still belongs.

Damson Idris shines as Joshua Pearce, bringing energy and authenticity to the ambitious young driver role. His chemistry with Pitt creates a compelling mentor-student dynamic that forms the film’s emotional core. I found his character’s growth arc believable and engaging throughout the story.

Javier Bardem provides solid support as team owner Ruben, though his role feels somewhat limited. Kerry Condon delivers a strong performance in her supporting role, bringing depth to what could have been a thankless part.

Technical Excellence

Joseph Kosinski’s direction is the film’s strongest asset. He delivers breathtaking racing sequences that put audiences in the cockpit alongside the drivers. The cinematography captures the speed and danger of Formula 1 racing with stunning clarity.

The film’s access to real F1 circuits and cooperation with the sport’s governing body results in an authentic portrayal of professional racing. The sound design deserves particular praise, with the roar of engines creating a visceral audio experience.

The pacing effectively alternates between high-energy racing sequences and quieter character moments. However, some dramatic scenes feel formulaic, following predictable sports movie patterns.

What Works and What Could Be Better

The film excels in its authentic portrayal of Formula 1 racing, thanks to unprecedented access to real circuits. The mentor-student relationship between Hayes and Pearce provides genuine emotional depth. Both lead actors deliver committed performances that sell their characters’ journey.

However, the screenplay occasionally relies too heavily on familiar sports movie conventions. Some plot developments feel predictable, and certain supporting characters could have been given more depth. I noticed the film’s runtime could have been trimmed in places where scenes feel unnecessarily extended.

The lack of a prominent musical score is noticeable. While this choice supports the realistic approach, a more dynamic musical accompaniment could have enhanced key emotional scenes.

Critical Reception and Public Response

Professional critics have responded positively to F1 The Movie. Rotten Tomatoes shows an 84% critical approval rating, with critics praising Kosinski’s direction and the authentic racing atmosphere. The critical consensus highlights the film’s vintage cool and Pitt’s magnetism as key strengths.

Roger Ebert’s review notes that while the film is expertly crafted, it sometimes feels cold and machinelike compared to other recent action films. Critics generally praise the visual spectacle and racing authenticity while noting that dramatic elements follow predictable patterns.

Public reception has been positive, with audiences particularly responding to the thrilling racing sequences and Pitt’s performance. Early reactions describe the film as electric and a must-watch summer blockbuster.

Final Verdict

F1 The Movie succeeds as a visually spectacular racing film that captures the excitement and danger of Formula 1 racing with remarkable authenticity. While the dramatic elements sometimes follow familiar sports movie formulas, the film benefits from strong lead performances and breathtaking racing sequences.

I believe the film represents a successful collaboration between Hollywood and Formula 1. It results in one of the most authentic racing movies ever produced. Despite some narrative shortcomings, F1 The Movie delivers the thrills and emotional satisfaction that audiences expect from a high-budget sports drama.

Rating: 4/5