Brad Pitt Calls Final F1 Filming Day His 'Unhappiest'

Movie producer Jerry Bruckheimer revealed that Brad Pitt described his final day of filming the upcoming F1 movie as his "unhappiest day" because he wanted to continue driving.

Why it matters:

Brad Pitt's deep immersion in the world of Formula 1 for the film highlights the authentic approach taken by the production team. His personal desire to keep driving underscores the captivating and exhilarating nature of F1, which the movie aims to convey to a global audience. This level of dedication from a Hollywood star can significantly boost the film's credibility and appeal among motorsport enthusiasts and general viewers alike.

The Details:

• The film, which features Pitt alongside Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, Tobias Menzies, Kerry Condon, and Kim Bodnia, is set for a June 2025 release.
• It has already amassed nearly $630 million at the global box office.
• Directed by Joseph Kosinski and executive produced by seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton, the movie integrated its filming into real-life F1 race weekends.
• Driving Immersion: Both Pitt and co-star Idris drove modified Formula 2 cars during production. Pitt also had the rare opportunity to drive a McLaren F1 car at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA), home of the United States Grand Prix.
  • Bruckheimer quoted Pitt saying, "When Brad climbed onto the car, it was his last run. He would say it was his unhappiest day because he wanted to drive some more."
• Emotional Farewell: Director Kosinski corroborated Pitt's sentiment, noting that they allowed him extra laps on the final day because of his passion. "He was really sad to get out of the car on the last day. That was for him. He really misses it." Kosinski believes it was emotional for Pitt to say goodbye to the character he loved playing.

Between the lines:

During an appearance on the Beyond The Grid podcast, Pitt shared his exhilarating experience driving the 2023 McLaren F1 car, an opportunity extended by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown during a private test at COTA.

• "I got to hit 197mph this week. I really wanted to hit 200. You know, it hurts me a little bit — three miles per hour short on the straight. This was at Austin," Pitt recounted.
• He described the F1 driving experience as an unparalleled feeling of presence: "I've just never experienced anything that's just, more feeling of presence in my life. You're so focused, but you're not white-knuckling. You're just in this sublime groove. It is really extraordinary."
• Pitt struggled to find an analogy for the sensation of downforce, noting it's unlike a rollercoaster or even an aerobatic plane. He called it "such a unique feeling and an absolute high. I'm still on a high, I really am. I'm just still on a high."
• He also thanked Zak Brown and the McLaren team, mentioning he spent a day with Lando Norris, calling it "what a high, what a high."

What's next:

The film's release in June 2025 is highly anticipated, especially given the extensive efforts to achieve realism in its depiction of F1 racing. Pitt's personal passion for the sport, ignited by his on-track experiences, is expected to translate into a compelling performance that could elevate the film beyond a typical sports drama.