Brad Pitt Explains the F1 Film’s Real Message—And It’s Not About Racing

Brad Pitt’s upcoming film F1, set to hit theaters on June 27, 2025, promises much more than adrenaline-fueled speed and high-octane thrills. While the movie is anchored in the world of Formula 1 racing, Pitt emphasizes that its core story is about redemption, mentorship, and navigating the challenges of aging in a fiercely competitive arena.

Directed by Joseph Kosinski—fresh off the success of Top Gun: Maverick—and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, F1 stars Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a former Formula 1 prodigy who makes a comeback not just to race, but to mentor a brash young rookie, Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. The film focuses heavily on their evolving relationship, capturing the tension between raw ambition and seasoned experience.

Though shot during real Formula 1 events with thrilling racing sequences, the film’s heart lies in its characters’ personal journeys. Pitt’s portrayal of Hayes explores resilience and the search for purpose beyond one’s prime, shining a light on what it means to redefine success as life moves forward.

Adding a layer of authenticity to the project is the involvement of seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton as a producer. Hamilton’s deep knowledge of the sport ensured that every technical detail and the atmosphere of the paddock were depicted with accuracy. Pitt praised Hamilton’s commitment, sharing that the racing star often dedicated up to 12 hours a day answering questions and advising the cast and crew.

In essence, F1 aims to deliver a cinematic experience that marries the rush of motorsport with a poignant story about growth, mentorship, and finding meaning beyond the checkered flag. For Pitt and the team, this film is less about the race itself and more about the human stories that unfold behind the scenes.