Damson Idris, who stars as Joshua in the forthcoming F1 movie, shared a notable story about Lewis Hamilton‘s involvement in shaping his character. As a co-producer, Hamilton encouraged director Joseph Kosinski to make Joshua more like a typical beginner. However, Idris explained the reason behind Joshua’s confident and fashionable style, highlighting Lewis Hamilton’s influence on the role.
F1: The Movie is scheduled for release on June 27, featuring Brad Pitt as retired Formula 1 driver Sonny Hayes. Idris portrays Joshua, a rookie driver guided by Hayes, navigating the challenges of his first season.
During production, Hamilton felt the character appeared too polished and suggested that Joshua should instead resemble a novice who is less stylish and more awkward, possibly even nerdy. Idris’s response, which connected Joshua’s demeanor to his admiration of Hamilton himself, convinced the co-producer to keep the character’s cool persona.
Idris explained to GQ,
“When Lewis arrived on the set, he squared the character of Joshua a little and said to Joe (director Joseph), ‘Dude, Joshua is really too cool! It has a fantastic look, definitely fashionable. He’s a beginner! He should be a nerd.’ To be a novice, he’s way ahead of me or most beginners were at their debut. Its safety and style are unique. I discovered my style only after ten years.”
He continued,
“And I replied, ‘Tell Lewis that he is Joshua’s greatest hero, and precisely because he is so, he tries to emulate him.’ That’s why it’s so cool.” Joe went to report it to Lewis, who replied, ‘Yes… ok, it’s fine, it makes sense.”
Joseph Kosinski has noted that Hamilton’s input was significant in crafting an authentic depiction of the sport, ensuring the film‘s portrayal is true to the experience of Formula 1.
Lewis Hamilton’s Reaction Following Early Screenings of ‘F1: The Movie’
Just before the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, Formula 1 organized a private screening of the movie for drivers, team principals, and senior officials. Hamilton, also involved as a co-producer, admitted he was anxious about how his peers would receive the film.
Speaking to Formula 1 recently, Hamilton said,
“I was nervous to see what all the drivers were going to think, because it was a very, very hard balance to get it to not be just Hollywood, be authentic, but also you still need drama and chaos, underdog and all that kind of stuff in it. Obviously I’m not a writer, but I think the response has been great. In general, it’s been a really positive response, so I’m grateful for that.”
Several drivers, including Carlos Sainz and Esteban Ocon, praised the film and anticipate it will resonate strongly with Formula 1 enthusiasts, combining intense racing drama with genuine insights into the sport.
The Significance of Hamilton’s Guidance in Shaping the Film’s Realism
Hamilton’s role extended beyond co-producing; his hands-on involvement helped balance authenticity with cinematic storytelling. This approach aimed to capture the intensity and passion of Formula 1 while delivering an engaging narrative centered on Joshua’s development under Hayes’s mentorship.
The decision to keep Joshua’s stylish, confident image reflects the impact of Lewis Hamilton’s real-life persona, inspiring the rookie character to stand out even as he learns the ropes. This creative choice enriches the movie’s depiction of a young driver’s journey, blending admiration and personal growth.
With its release approaching, F1: The Movie is positioned to attract both dedicated fans and general audiences, offering an energetic, hopeful portrayal of the sport’s blend of drama, speed, and character evolution that Lewis Hamilton helped shape behind the scenes.
