The upcoming F1 movie has set a new standard for collaboration between the sport and filmmakers, with Formula 1 providing unprecedented access to the production. Central to the film’s authenticity is Lewis Hamilton‘s invaluable contribution, as the seven-time world champion dedicated significant time and effort to ensuring the movie truly captured the essence of the sport.
In the days leading to the film’s release, director Joseph Kosinski and lead actor Brad Pitt shared insights into how deeply involved Hamilton was in shaping the project, highlighting his role as pivotal to making the film believable for both fans and newcomers alike.
Building a Partnership Rooted in Respect and Authenticity
The partnership started from a simple conversation between Lewis Hamilton and Joseph Kosinski, which evolved into a close collaboration. This relationship allowed the filmmakers to tap into Hamilton’s expert knowledge and insight, enhancing every aspect of the movie.
Brad Pitt recalled his initial meeting with Hamilton as more than just a discussion of racing. He described the driver as a remarkable person whose character goes beyond his racing talent.
When Lewis came on, then it was a go. And it was a simple phone call for me. I remember we sat down that first time – and that’s less about racing and more about just sitting with a gem of a human being. There’s a reason… champions are made, I think, beyond just talent.
—Brad Pitt, Actor
It’s also how they carry themselves and how they face the world. And he is just a gem and a gent. Really, really.
—Brad Pitt, Actor
Pitt’s admiration for Hamilton clearly extends beyond his driving skills, reflecting on the qualities that make him an exceptional figure both inside and outside Formula 1.
Hamilton’s Dedication Elevated the Film’s Realism
Brad Pitt also emphasized Hamilton’s role as a dedicated collaborator during production.
And then you come to what the expertise is that he has brought to this thing. He would give us like 12 hours in a day. We’d just sit and just query and throw questions at him – ‘What about this?’ – and he really helped shape us – shape this film.
—Brad Pitt, Actor
Director Joseph Kosinski, famous for his work on Top Gun: Maverick, praised Hamilton’s hands-on involvement throughout the process. Hamilton contributed not only to the storyline but also to the technical details that define Formula 1.
Lewis Hamilton has been involved every step of the way – from creating the original story with me to getting every detail of the cars, from what gear you’re in to what it sounds like when you’re on the back straight,
Kosinski noted.
And he has just been invaluable in getting this right.
The precision Hamilton brought sometimes increased production costs, yet the team remained committed to delivering an authentic experience.
Producers Acknowledge Hamilton and F1’s Impact on the Production
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer expressed profound gratitude for Hamilton’s support and the wider Formula 1 community’s contribution to the film.
Everything that he has brought to this movie, I can’t even express our thanks to him and all the folks from F1 who made this all possible,
Bruckheimer said.
But the authenticity that he brings, we just can’t imagine what goes into what a driver does and what the sport brings to an audience.
Although some of Hamilton’s suggestions led to increased expenses, Bruckheimer appreciated his rigorous standards and the team’s shared goal of making the film exceptional.
Sometimes we don’t like to hear some of the things he says, because it costs us more money to fix things, but we’re all in, we want to make it great, and he’s certainly helping us.
—Jerry Bruckheimer, Producer
Setting a New Benchmark for Sports Films
Lewis Hamilton’s active role in the F1 movie production marks a milestone in how sports figures can influence cinematic storytelling by ensuring authenticity. The film’s detailed portrayal of Formula 1 racing owes much to his expertise, which not only added realism but also helped elevate the movie’s appeal to a wider audience.
With insights from Hamilton, Brad Pitt, and Joseph Kosinski, the film promises an immersive experience that honors the sport’s complexity and intensity. As anticipation builds toward the movie’s premiere, this collaboration stands as an example of artistic and athletic dedication converging to create compelling cinema.
