Lewis Hamilton’s highly anticipated film, titled F1, launches audiences into the high-speed world of Formula 1 racing with intense action and striking authenticity. Released in 2023, the movie blends fast-paced thrills and valuable insights into the sport, though it struggles with dramatic elements and the portrayal of female characters.
A High-Octane Look into the Formula 1 World
Directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, F1 features Hamilton not only as a producer but also as a key contributor ensuring the accuracy of racing details. The film uses real Formula 1 commentators David Croft and Martin Brundle, rather than actors, to maintain authenticity, which resonates well with fans familiar with the intricacies of the sport. Hamilton’s involvement helped create a genuine atmosphere, from the sights and sounds of the Silverstone circuit to behind-the-scenes depictions of team garages and driver cameos.
The movie centers on retired driver Sonny Hayes, portrayed by Brad Pitt, who returns to the Formula 1 scene to aid a struggling team while mentoring a rookie driver, Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. Though the storyline of an aging veteran coaching a youthful contender is familiar, the dynamic between Pitt and Idris feels genuine and engaging, reinforced by numerous authentic touches drawn from Hamilton’s expertise.
Strong Visuals and Sound Amplify the Experience
F1 stands out with breathtaking racing sequences and a powerful soundtrack composed by Hans Zimmer, enhancing the film’s adrenaline-fueled pace. The production’s combination of realistic visuals and sound design immerses viewers in the intensity of Grand Prix racing, delivering an experience often compared to the popular series Drive to Survive but with sharper imagery and a more focused narrative.
Drama and Plot Twists That Miss the Mark
Despite these strengths, the film falters in balancing on-track action with its off-track drama. An awkwardly executed driver dinner scene attempts to develop character relationships but ends up feeling forced. A particularly controversial moment dubbed “Plan C” involves Sonny Hayes deliberately causing crashes to trigger a safety car and help Pearce gain an advantage. For dedicated fans aware of the 2008 Crashgate scandal, this plot device comes across as unrealistic and undermines the sport’s integrity.
Underdeveloped Female Characters Reflect Missed Opportunities
The movie’s portrayal of women in Formula 1 also leaves much to be desired. Kate, who represents the sport’s first female technical director on screen, receives minimal focus, missing a chance to highlight the challenges women face in a male-dominated environment. Meanwhile, a female pit crew member is shown fumbling with tools and receiving condescending remarks from Pearce, a portrayal that feels clichéd rather than illuminating the pressures women endure in such roles.
Authenticity Remains at the Core of the Film
Ultimately, F1 delivers where it counts—speed, realism, and an immersive racing atmosphere bolstered by Joseph Kosinski’s striking direction and Hans Zimmer’s compelling score. Hamilton’s dedication ensures that the sport’s essence shines through despite narrative missteps. The film provides a thrilling ride for fans, capturing the adrenaline of Formula 1, even if it does not succeed in every dramatic or character-driven aspect.
“Hamilton insisted the director use real F1 commentators — David Croft and Martin Brundle instead of actors.” —Damson Idris
“A glaring misfire? Plan C — a wild plot twist where Sonny intentionally crashes multiple times to bring out a safety car and give Pearce a tactical advantage.” —Damson Idris
