The film "F1," starring Brad Pitt, has achieved a new milestone, officially becoming his highest-grossing movie by surpassing "World War Z." This success highlights the growing global appeal of Formula 1.
Why it matters
The film's impressive box office performance underscores the broad public interest in Formula 1 beyond its traditional fanbase, proving its commercial viability in mainstream entertainment.
The details
- Since its international release on June 25, "F1" has grossed over $545 million globally, surpassing "World War Z" (2013), which earned $540 million.
- Directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the film features Pitt as former F1 driver Sonny Hayes, alongside Damson Idris as rookie Joshua Pearce.
- Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton served as an executive producer, playing a key role in ensuring the film's authenticity within the Formula 1 world.
- Filming took place during actual F1 race weekends, with the fictional APX GP team having a real garage and genuine F1 drivers appearing in the movie.
- Brad Pitt drove a modified Formula 2 car for filming and later, a 2023 McLaren F1 car at the Circuit of the Americas after principal photography wrapped.
What they're saying
Pitt shared his exhilarating experience driving the McLaren F1 car on the "Beyond The Grid" podcast: "I've never experienced anything that's just a more feeling of presence in my life because you're so focused... You're just in this, like, sublime groove. It is really extraordinary." He added, "The step up, is massive! Certainly the pick up is like nothing I’d experienced before, just more, more, more. More brakes, more speed, more cornering power. I want to go back again and beat the time."