Kerry Condon on Her Tense F1 Movie Face-Off with Brad Pitt

Irish actor Kerry Condon, who plays APX GP technical director Kate McKenna in the highly anticipated F1 movie, has revealed details about filming a particularly tense scene with co-star Brad Pitt, who portrays veteran driver Sonny Hayes. The scene, which takes a brutal turn as McKenna tells Hayes he's "not a has-been, he's a never was," was a pivotal moment for Condon, who felt immense pressure to deliver.

Why it matters:

The F1 movie, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Joseph Kosinski, with seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton as an executive producer, has garnered significant attention for its authentic portrayal of the sport. Insights into the filming process, especially from key actors like Condon, highlight the unique challenges of shooting on live F1 weekends and the high stakes involved in bringing a realistic racing drama to the big screen. The film's success is crucial for bridging the gap between mainstream audiences and the niche world of Formula 1.

The Details:

• The Scene: Condon described the scene with Brad Pitt as a crucial early moment in the shoot. Her character, Kate McKenna, delivers a harsh assessment of Pitt's character, Sonny Hayes, stating, "Sonny Hayes isn't a has-been, he's a never was."
• Pressure to Perform: Condon felt the pressure to excel, especially given that the actors' strike began the day after the scene was filmed. She was determined to "prove why I got the job," fearing a recast if her performance wasn't strong.
• Nerves on Set: Despite her seasoned acting background, Condon admitted to being nervous during the scene, focusing intensely on not shaking the pint glass she was holding to avoid revealing her anxiety.
• Director's Input: Director Joseph Kosinski noted that Condon's performance became "meaner" with each take, though Condon herself was surprised by this feedback. Ultimately, many of the initial takes made it into the final cut of the film.
• Authentic Filming Environment: The movie was filmed during actual F1 weekends, integrating the cast and crew into the live racing environment alongside real F1 drivers and team personnel. This setup meant a "non-princessy vibe," requiring actors to be constantly ready without the usual luxuries of a typical film set.
• Lewis Hamilton's Involvement: The presence of Lewis Hamilton as an executive producer underscores the film's commitment to authenticity, aiming to accurately reflect the world of Formula 1.

The Big Picture:

The F1 movie aims to provide an immersive experience for viewers, following Sonny Hayes' return to F1 with the struggling new team APX GP and its rookie driver Joshua Pearce. Filming during real F1 races allowed for unparalleled realism, with actual F1 drivers and team members making appearances. This approach emphasizes the film's dedication to capturing the raw energy and competitive spirit of Formula 1, distinguishing it from traditional studio productions.

What's next:

The F1 movie, released in June 2025, has already grossed $68.8 million at the box office, indicating a strong public interest. As audiences continue to engage with the film, Condon's insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication required to bring such a high-octane story to life. The film's success could pave the way for more sports-centric narratives that blur the lines between cinematic storytelling and real-life events, solidifying F1's growing cultural footprint.