movie review
F1: THE MOVIE
Running time: 155 minutes. Rated: PG-13 (strong language and action). In theaters June 27.
Prepare for a ride that revs up your adrenaline—Brad Pitt stars in the high-octane thrill-ride, **“F1: The Movie.”** Channeling his inner Maverick, Pitt plays the aging racing legend Sonny Hayes, who swaps his quiet life for a return to the track after three decades away. With a charming smile and a reckless spirit, he faces off against a new generation of drivers while reigniting old flames and confronting personal demons.
The Plot: A Race Against Time
In **“F1: The Movie,”** directed by the visionary Joseph Kosinski (known for the blockbuster hit **“Top Gun: Maverick”**), we see a worn-out Sonny drawn back into the world of Formula 1 racing. With the help of his friend Ruben (Javier Bardem), he must transform a consistently underperforming team. Think **“Hoosiers”**—only with turbocharged engines and roaring crowds instead of a basketball court.
Unforgettable Characters
Sonny is far from the perfect protagonist; he’s ridden with flaws, including a history of reckless gambling and a stint as a cab driver in New York. The film gives us an intriguing glimpse into his multifaceted character, with Pitt’s performance reminding us of why he remains a titan in Hollywood. **Damson Idris** shines as Joshua, an overconfident rookie who learns not just from his successes but also from his seasoned mentor. Their rivalry adds layers of complexity to the plot.
Adding to the ensemble is **Sarah Niles** (of **“Ted Lasso”** fame), who plays Bernadette, Joshua’s mother. Her character adds emotional weight, underscoring the life-or-death stakes of racing as she grapples with her son’s dangerous career.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
Unlike its similarities to **”Top Gun,”** **“F1: The Movie”** takes a deeper emotional dive. The heart of the narrative accelerates rather than stagnates, focusing on Sonny’s fiery passion rather than self-pity. The budding romance between Sonny and technical director **Kate**, portrayed by **Kerry Condon**, injects moments of levity amidst the intensity of racing. Their chemistry is electric, offering a refreshing counterbalance to the film’s white-knuckle action.
Stunning Cinematography and Action
**“F1: The Movie”** isn’t just a narrative thrill; it’s a visual feast. Apple took considerable financial risks, and it paid off. The racing sequences are breathtakingly shot and edited at breakneck speed. The film immerses viewers in the intense world of Formula 1, making them feel every heart-stopping moment—flipping cars and shimmering tracks are rendered in stunning clarity.
From Daytona to Abu Dhabi, **the exploration of global racetracks showcases the sport’s expansive allure**. Each location adds a sense of grandeur and authenticity to the unfolding drama, solidifying the film’s adrenaline-fueled atmosphere.
Final Thoughts: A Victory for Apple
At its core, **“F1: The Movie”** is more than just a racing film; it’s a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence. While it may succumb to a few predictable tropes, the film is wildly entertaining. **Brad Pitt** masters the role like a pro, embodying a character that is every bit as nuanced as he is charismatic.
In the end, regardless of whether Sonny crosses the finish line first, it’s clear that Apple has struck gold with this cinematic venture. With its engaging storyline and exhilarating visuals, **“F1: The Movie”** deserves a spot on your summer watchlist. And while you may think the runtime stretches on, I assure you, you’ll be too captivated to question it.
So, buckle up and prepare for an exhilarating cinematic experience. **“F1: The Movie”** will keep your heart racing long after the credits roll.