Brad Pitt’s F1 Film Blends Authentic Racing with Hollywood Drama

While the film showcases impressively authentic race scenes — many shot during actual Grand Prix weekends — it also takes creative liberties in crafting a redemption story that draws inspiration from decades of F1 drama.

At the recent New York premiere, Pitt revealed that the filmmakers “just drew from history — a little this, a little that” to shape the plot, with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton on board as co-producer to ensure realism. Apple’s Eddy Cue, a Ferrari board member and lifelong F1 fan, emphasized after a media screening that every dramatic element in the film has roots in real racing incidents, even if not directly replicated.

The story centers around Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, a veteran driver attempting an unlikely comeback alongside a young talent at a struggling team. While critics have questioned the realism of a 61-year-old competing in modern F1, Hamilton defended Pitt’s casting, humorously suggesting the actor “looks like he’s ageing backwards.” Historically, older drivers like Philippe Etancelin and Louis Chiron raced well into their 50s, though such age-defying comebacks are rare today.

The film weaves in nods to actual F1 events — from comeback tales like Jan Lammers’ decade-long absence to Jenson Button’s stunning last-to-first victory at the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix. Hayes’ fictional crash echoes Martin Donnelly’s harrowing 1990 accident in Jerez, while scenes draw parallels with Romain Grosjean’s fiery 2020 Bahrain crash and Niki Lauda’s legendary 1976 return.

The movie also references controversial moments like the 2008 “Crashgate” incident involving Nelson Piquet Jr. and hints at a future F1 led by a female technical director — still fictional but aspirational, given growing female representation in team roles.

Director Joseph Kosinski cites racing classics like Grand Prix (1966) and Le Mans (1971) as major influences, aiming to recapture their raw, practical cinematography. Though dramatic and stylized, the film is deeply rooted in motorsport lore, offering both F1 enthusiasts and newcomers a compelling ride through the highs and heartbreaks of racing.