F1 The Movie (2025) Film Review: Sensational sports drama is the quintessential summer blockbuster

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Ageing American race driver Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) returns to Formula One after a thirty-year absence to mentor an up-and-coming driver and save his old teammate's underdog squad from collapse.

Joseph Kosinski and Ehren Kruger, director and writer behind the spellbinding Top Gun: Maverick (2022), collaborated with the FIA and Lewis Hamilton, who co-produced the film, to bring us the 'coolest' blockbuster of the year.

Taking inspiration from key narrative beats and characterisations from their previous hit, F1 spices up this successful formula with race cars and another leading Hollywood man aside from Tom Cruise: the ever-charismatic and reliable Brad Pitt.

This riveting sports drama centres on the fictional character of Sonny Hayes being handed another go at winning the race, following a devastating crash in his prime, which left him with lasting injuries. He returns to his roots and experiences generational divides as he repeatedly clashes with his ambitious, young teammate, Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), but they must learn to work together to win the Grand Prix.

Pitt and Idris star as the two chosen drivers to compete in the Grand Prix

Despite clocking in at a hefty two and a half hours, a fun, witty script with snappy, quick-fire dialogue and a real sense of exhilaration ensures the film speeds along at a slick pace. The movie wastes no time in setting off with a stellar opening sequence showcasing Hayes in his element, winning the 24 Hours of Daytona race with ease, soundtracked to Led Zeppelin's 1969 classic 'Whole Lotta Love'. Fluid, precise editing by Stephen Mirrione and Patrick J. Smith is displayed in perfect timing to the track's epic needle drops, evoking a golden era vibe as the weathered Hayes pretty much effortlessly demonstrates his true skill behind the wheel.

One of Hollywood's most beloved composers, Hans Zimmer, orchestrates a suitably energetic and intense score, which complements the emotional highs and lows and action sequences flawlessly.

As can be expected following the innovative, creative feats of Maverick, the racing sequences themselves are simply phenomenal. Certainly a superior big screen experience with a combination of visceral visual and audio spectacle, showcasing interior shooting alongside our drivers and their point of view, as well as cameras mounted on the vehicles, truly immersing spectators in the beating heart of the action. These sequences are chocked full of adrenaline and suspense, due to the high stakes revolving around the danger and natural risk of the sport. It is truly heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat content, especially when the cars get too close to each other and the fates of the drivers are left up in the air.

Adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers will find much to love with the film's numerous, gripping race sequences

However, the film is not purely based on the thrill of racing, as there is a genuine purpose and payoff behind the competition. Although somewhat formulaic in its execution, with predictable plot beats and familiar treaded ground, such as the themes of underdogs and second chances, a solid balance between action and drama helps ground the film and maintain constant engagement.

The uneasy dynamic between Hayes and Pearce is fascinating to watch, as both men share similar qualities with a certain cockiness and bloated ego to boot, whilst also embodying clear skill and expertise on the track. Both leads are charming and play off each other well, despite plenty of moments of unlikability, and it is refreshing to see the grizzled veteran have flaws despite his experience. Both drivers learn valuable lessons from each other, leading to satisfying, feel-good results. The supporting roles from Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men, 2007) as Hayes' old friend and teammate, and Kerry Condon (The Banshees of Inisherin, 2022) as the team's technical director, are also given substantial screen time to add admirable texture to their respective characters.

When it comes down to it, F1 is the ultimate, complete movie entertainment package. Even if you are not a follower or fan of the sport, this spectacular crowd-pleaser has something for everyone. Although the overall plot has been done before, it is difficult not to be drawn in by the sheer passion and prowess behind and in front of the camera. A delightful combination of kinetic, gripping action set pieces and heart, as well as the undeniable star power of leading man Brad Pitt, results in pure escapist fun. Go see it in IMAX if you get the chance (if only for the incredible racing sequences alone) - you will not be disappointed!

Check out the trailer for F1 The Movie (2025) below, and please let me know your thoughts in the comments!