F1 Movie Review: Brad Pitt’s High-Octane Thriller Wows Critics – Is It the Next Top Gun?

Buckle up for an exhilarating ride! The highly anticipated F1 movie, starring Brad Pitt, has hit the press circuit, and early reactions are revving with excitement. This F1 Movie Review roundup dives into the first wave of critic feedback, showcasing why this racing epic is being hailed as a summer blockbuster.

Directed by Joseph Kosinski of Top Gun: Maverick fame and co-produced by F1 legend Lewis Hamilton, F1 promises to blend heart-pounding action with emotional depth. Here’s everything you need to know about the initial buzz, key performances, and what makes this film a must-see on the big screen.

What Are Critics Saying About F1’s First Screenings?

The first press screenings for F1 took place in early June 2025, and critics are buzzing with praise. Social media reactions highlight the film’s “action-packed” sequences and “flawless” technical craftsmanship. Variety’s Jazz Tangcay raved, “WOW! @F1Movie is an action-packed thrilling look at the world of F1 racing, with lots of grit.

The sound, score, and cinematography are flawless. Damson Idris and Brad Pitt are great! Absolutely Obsessedddddd”. Similarly, Fandango’s Erik Davis called it a “high-octane thrill ride” that “hits the gas and doesn’t stop,” drawing comparisons to Top Gun: Maverick for its old-school blockbuster vibe.

Critics have lauded the film’s ability to captivate even non-F1 fans. Maude Garrett from Nerdist noted, “#F1TheMovie is so freaking good. It has all the adrenaline, heart, pacing, story, and character that completely fleshes out this movie into excellence. I can only imagine how much MORE I would love this movie if I was a fan of F1 racing!”. The consensus? F1 delivers a visceral, immersive experience that’s perfect for IMAX or 4DX screenings.

Who Stars in F1 and How Are Their Performances?

Brad Pitt leads as Sonny Hayes, a retired Formula 1 driver who returns to mentor rookie Joshua “Noah” Pearce, played by Damson Idris. Critics have praised their onscreen chemistry, with Variety’s Clayton Davis noting, “Brad Pitt and Damson Idris shine brightest when sharing the screen.

Race to see this one in IMAX”. Pitt’s portrayal of the grizzled veteran is described as “reliable as ever” and “hotter than ever,” while Idris brings “youthful charm and determination” that marks him as a breakout star.

The supporting cast, including Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem, and Tobias Menzies, also earns high marks. Condon, in particular, is singled out as a scene-stealer with a “stunning performance”. Real F1 drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris, and Max Verstappen make cameos, adding authenticity to the racing sequences. These performances, combined with the film’s emotional depth, elevate F1 beyond a typical sports drama.

Why Is F1 Being Compared to Top Gun: Maverick?

Directed by Joseph Kosinski, F1 is frequently likened to Top Gun: Maverick for its high-stakes action and cinematic spectacle. Critics note that Kosinski’s signature style—kinetic editing, immersive sound design, and breathtaking visuals—makes F1 feel like a spiritual successor.

Erik Davis wrote, “You definitely feel shades of TOP GUN MAVERICK in that it plays like an old school summer blockbuster”. The film’s racing sequences, shot at real F1 races, are described as “edge-of-your-seat exhilarating”.

Cinematographer Claudio Miranda, who earned a BAFTA nomination for Top Gun: Maverick, is a standout, with critics urging awards recognition for his work. The Hans Zimmer score and a soundtrack featuring artists like Tate McRae and Doja Cat further amplify the film’s energy.

This F1 Movie Review consensus suggests Kosinski has crafted another crowd-pleaser that demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible.

How Authentic Is F1 to Formula 1 Racing?

Authenticity is a key talking point in early reactions. Co-produced by Lewis Hamilton, F1 was filmed at actual Grand Prix events, incorporating real drivers and teams for realism. Hamilton’s involvement ensured technical accuracy, with trailers showcasing stunning onboard shots.

British rookie Oliver Bearman commented on Pitt’s driving, saying, “Honestly, he did an impressive job. He was pushing the car, that’s for sure”.

However, some fans have raised concerns about Pitt’s age (61) as a believable F1 driver, given the sport’s physical demands. Others criticized a line of dialogue dismissing safety measures, which clashes with F1’s modern emphasis on driver protection.

Despite these quibbles, the film’s immersive race sequences and Hamilton’s oversight have won over many skeptics, making it a love letter to F1 fans and newcomers alike.

What Are the Potential Drawbacks of F1?

While the F1 Movie Review buzz is overwhelmingly positive, some critics and fans have noted potential hurdles. The film’s $300 million budget—among the highest ever—raises questions about its box office performance, especially given the spotty track record of F1 films like Bobby Deerfield.

Some worry that non-racing fans might find the plot clichéd, with its “grumpy veteran vs. hotshot rookie” dynamic.

Additionally, a mixed response to a 10-minute Comic-Con clip in 2024 had initially tempered expectations, but the full film has largely flipped the narrative. Critics suggest that while F1 may simplify some technical aspects to appeal to a broader audience, its emotional core and visual spectacle more than compensate.

When and Where Can You Watch F1?

F1 is set to hit theaters globally on June 25, 2025, with a U.S. and Canada release on June 27, just days before the Austrian Grand Prix. The film will enjoy a two-week IMAX exclusive run, making it a must-see for fans of immersive cinema.

Following its theatrical run, F1 will stream on Apple TV+, though a streaming date is yet to be announced.

Early reactions recommend experiencing F1 in IMAX or 4DX for the full effect of its racing sequences. With a runtime of 2 hours and 35 minutes, the film promises a substantial, adrenaline-fueled experience. Tickets are expected to sell fast, so keep an eye on theater listings as the release date approaches.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Get ready to race to the theaters! F1 is shaping up to be one of 2025’s biggest cinematic events, blending heart-pounding action with a stellar cast and top-tier craftsmanship.

This F1 Movie Review roundup shows that Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, and Joseph Kosinski have delivered a film that’s thrilling critics and poised to ignite audiences.

Whether you’re an F1 diehard or just love a good summer blockbuster, F1 is a ride you won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for June 25, 2025, and prepare for a cinematic experience that’s “so freaking good” it might just convert you into an F1 fan.