Inside the Paddock: Making Brad Pitt’s ‘F1’ Movie

Formula One is set to take a leap into Hollywood in 2025 with the help of Brad Pitt, Jerry Bruckheimer, and “Top Gun: Maverick” director Joseph Kosinski. Lending his expertise is none other than Lewis Hamilton. The movie, titled simply “F1,” is scheduled for release on June 25 next year. Remarkably, it has enjoyed exclusive access to the sport over the past year, with scenes filmed in the paddock, pit lane, and even on the grid at Silverstone for two consecutive years.

The movie is described as being set in the exhilarating and cinematic world of Formula One. According to the championship itself, “F1” aims to immerse audiences in the spectacle of the sport, celebrating the drivers’ skill and heroism while highlighting the immense challenge of competition in Formula One.

There’s significant buzz around the potential impact of this film. Many believe “F1” could outshine Netflix’s hit series “Drive to Survive.” Brad Pitt’s star power, along with collaboration between Apple and Warner Brothers, underscores the ambition to create a genuine Formula One experience. Pitt’s participation has generated excitement, especially when he was seen wearing race overalls in the paddock at the British Grand Prix last month.

Authenticity is a major focus for the filmmakers. Last year, APXGP, Pitt’s fictional team, even had its own garage at Silverstone, placed between Mercedes and Ferrari. The motorhome featured at the British race supports both scene filming and serves as a crew hub.

In addition to Pitt, other notable figures are attached to the project. Javier Bardem plays APXGP’s team boss, and he was also seen on the grid at Silverstone filming scenes for the trailer. Bardem’s interactions included a brief scene with Red Bull boss Christian Horner.

The 97-second trailer, which played before the Silverstone race in July, featured Queen’s “We Will Rock You” and showcased the film’s grandeur. Initially, some dialogue raised eyebrows. Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, and Irish actor Kerry Condon’s character, F1’s first female technical director, engage in a conversation about battling on the turns and the challenges of making that safe. Hayes’s memorable line, “Safe? Who said anything about safe?” certainly caught attention.

Despite some critiques of the trailer’s dialogue, the filmmakers have prioritized realism. Lewis Hamilton’s involvement as an executive producer early in the project has been crucial. Filming real race footage and blending it with cutting-edge technology ensures the racing scenes appear authentic.

Hamilton himself has expressed the goal of encapsulating the essence of the sport. When the movie releases, Hamilton will be midway through his 19th season in F1, his first with Ferrari. Though some might argue that films like Ron Howard’s “Rush” have depicted the sport well, Hamilton believes “F1” will set a new standard.

There have been notable attempts in the past to depict racing on screen, like Sylvester Stallone’s “Driven,” which fell short due to unrealistic elements. Hamilton’s guidance aims to avoid such pitfalls, ensuring “F1” retains its authenticity. Pitt and co-star Damson Idris have even driven a modified Formula 2 car on various circuits, which can be seen at the end of the trailer.

In July 2023, Pitt and Idris participated in the formation lap ahead of the British Grand Prix, standing alongside reigning world champion Max Verstappen during the national anthem. This collaboration with current F1 drivers is a significant element of the film.

Much like “Drive to Survive,” “F1” will offer an exclusive peek inside the paddock. Liberty Media, F1’s owners, have ensured that all teams and drivers are involved in this ambitious project. During the British GP, Pitt and Idris filmed interview scenes in the TV media pen. One memorable moment featured Fernando Alonso filming a short scene with Pitt, which became a viral clip. Initially planned for Saturday during Q3, Alonso’s involvement was rescheduled to Sunday after he made it through to the top-ten shootout.

The movie also plans to feature every current driver in some capacity. Pitt’s arrival at the Hungaroring paddock during the Hungarian Grand Prix saw fans cheering for APXGP. Scenes were also filmed at the Belgian Grand Prix, with fans applauding the fictional team as the car drove down the straight.

The cameo list includes former Haas boss Guenther Steiner, who briefly appeared in the trailer. Additionally, Pitt and Idris have attended numerous driver briefings, igniting enthusiasm among the drivers. Hamilton humorously commented after their first appearance, “Best driver briefing ever.”

The anticipation for “F1” is palpable. With a blend of Hollywood glamour and F1 authenticity, it promises to be a visual and cinematic spectacle that could redefine movies about the sport.

Source: Various