After **half a decade of anticipation**, *F1 The Movie* has finally roared into theaters. This cinematic endeavor, featuring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski, with Lewis Hamilton producing, has created ripples in the film industry. Many fans wonder: **Was it worth the wait?** On opening night, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, I immersed myself in the awe-inspiring Dolby Atmos soundscape and *Hans Zimmer’s* powerful score. My ultimate takeaway? **This film should absolutely be experienced in theaters**, yet it leaves much to be desired.
With a staggering **reported budget exceeding half a billion dollars**, *F1 The Movie* ranks among the most expensive films in history. Yet, while some visuals dazzle, the **weak plot and unrealistic premise** might render it another forgettable superhero flick. Bursting with promise, the film left me angrier than anticipated.
In a spoiler-free review, let’s dive into the cinematic highs and lows of this racing epic.
The Good
The opening sequence of this film is nothing short of **transcendent**. Picture this: Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) emerges from his van, dons a sleek suit, and accelerates in a Porsche 911 GT3 R at the **24 Hours of Daytona**. The scene is visually arresting, evoking tears of joy for racing fans. While many viewers may be unfamiliar with endurance racing, it’s thrilling to witness it so beautifully portrayed on screen.
I cannot overlook Zimmer’s **bombastic score**. It intertwines emotional depth with action, reminiscent of his work in *Inception*, but with a faster, more frenetic tempo. The intensity of the music grips you until two nearly-silent scenes shift the atmosphere to palpable tension, immersing you deeper into the narrative.
There’s an undeniable allure to the glitz of Formula 1 that translates beautifully to the big screen. Kosinski’s expertise in shooting action is evident, evidenced by his previous acclaim for *Top Gun: Maverick*. The action is riveting, with intense shots held slightly longer than typical, providing **visual clarity** that elevates the experience.
The Bad
However, the film is not without its pitfalls. While Zimmer’s score shines, the inclusion of a **poppy, star-studded soundtrack** detracts from its timelessness. Relying on tracks from Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat, and others, the film risks dating itself quickly, particularly with the schlocky use of Queen’s “We Will Rock You” as a pre-race anthem.
Regrettably, **Brad Pitt’s casting** raises questions. He is significantly older than the oldest F1 driver on record and lacks the energetic presence the role demands. With so many capable actors in their forties, it’s a missed opportunity. The charisma that defined roles in *Ocean’s 11* and *Inglourious Basterds* seems dimmed.
Moreover, the plot’s **predictable formula** echoes past racing films. An aging racer aids a rebellious rookie? It parallels the narrative of *Driven*, a film whose charm has faded despite its own attempts at grandeur. Essentially, *F1 The Movie* feels like a riff on older stories, albeit with a **massive budget**.
The Flaws
For die-hard F1 fans, this film raises an important question: **Who is the target audience?** With too much technical jargon for newcomers, and glaring inaccuracies that leave seasoned fans frustrated, it struggles to find a balance. Terms like DRS and tire strategies may elude non-fans, while F1 enthusiasts will spot the discrepancies.
Certain scenes further exacerbate the issue, portraying unsafe driving tactics that may misrepresent the sport. For instance, Hayes drives post-crash with impaired vision—an irresponsible portrayal of driver safety. These moments raise eyebrows and may inadvertently cast a shadow over the sport’s commitment to safety.
Furthermore, the movie’s **timeline skips** raise logical questions. Why does a Grand Prix leader open DRS without lapped cars ahead? How does Hayes compete without a Superlicense? With a convoluted journey across various circuits in a fragmented season, these inconsistencies detract from the narrative’s clarity.
Conclusion
Despite my critiques, I acknowledge that some elements won’t temper your enthusiasm. If you venture into theaters armed with popcorn and a refreshing drink, you’re likely to enjoy the spectacle. *F1 The Movie* is loud, vibrant, and visually striking, yet it ultimately suffers from **mediocre acting and writing**. As a visual feast, it thrives in cinemas but would falter on a home screen.
Your best bet? **Grab your tickets** for the theater experience, or consider skipping it altogether. Cinema’s magic lies in its immersive sound and visuals—capturing the essence of the racing world is something best saved for the big screen.
