F1 Movie Reviews on Rotten Tomatoes: Brad Pitt’s High-Octane Thriller Speeds to Glory

F1 Movie Reviews on Rotten Tomatoes are revving up excitement as Brad Pitt’s F1, directed by Top Gun: Maverick’s Joseph Kosinski, races toward its June 27, 2025, release.

With a 78% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, critics praise the film’s pulse-pounding race sequences, stunning visuals, and Pitt’s magnetic performance as a retired Formula 1 driver.

Starring Damson Idris as his rookie rival and featuring real F1 stars like Lewis Hamilton, this sports drama is being hailed as a summer blockbuster. Here’s everything you need to know about the early reactions and what makes F1 a must-see.

What Makes Brad Pitt’s Performance Stand Out?

Critics are floored by Pitt’s portrayal of Sonny Hayes, a former F1 driver returning to the fictional APXGP team after a career-ending crash.

Variety’s Jazz Tangcay calls him “captivating,” blending charisma with vulnerability in a role reminiscent of his Moneyball gravitas.

Pitt’s chemistry with Damson Idris, who plays rookie Joshua Pearce, is a highlight, with Rotten Tomatoes contributor Erik Davis noting their “dynamic” interplay.

Pitt’s training to drive modified F2 cars on real tracks adds authenticity, earning praise from F1 drivers like Oliver Bearman for his “impressive” skills.

How Thrilling Are the Race Sequences?

The film’s race scenes are a standout, shot at iconic tracks like Silverstone and Monza with micro-cameras for immersive driver POVs.

TheWrap’s Drew Taylor calls it “one of the coolest movies you’ll ever see,” while Nerds of Color says the sequences “put you in the driver’s seat.” Hans Zimmer’s electrifying score and Claudio Miranda’s cinematography amplify the adrenaline, with Variety’s Clayton Davis urging audiences to “race to see this in IMAX.”

Critics compare the visceral energy to Top Gun: Maverick, cementing Kosinski’s knack for high-stakes action.

Is F1 Authentic to Formula 1?

Authenticity is a key strength, thanks to producer Lewis Hamilton and filming during actual F1 race weekends. Cameos from Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and others blur the line between fiction and reality.

Next Best Picture’s Zak Ahmed praises its accessibility, noting “even non-F1 fans will enjoy it.” However, IndieWire critiques a cavalier attitude toward crashes, citing a disconnect with modern F1’s safety focus, as seen in references to dramatic wrecks like Romain Grosjean’s. Still, the film’s realism earns high marks.

What Are the Film’s Strengths and Weaknesses?

Beyond its visuals, F1 boasts a stellar supporting cast, with Kerry Condon as a “vital” technical director and Javier Bardem as a commanding team owner, per The Guardian. The 2-hour-35-minute runtime delivers heart and emotion, though IGN Movies suggests it could be tighter.

Some reviews, like Variety’s, note a “formulaic” plot and underdeveloped characters, but the consensus is that Pitt’s star power and Kosinski’s direction make it a “thrilling crowd-pleaser,” per ScreenRant. Its $300 million budget shines in every frame.

How Does F1 Compare to Other Racing Films?

Critics draw parallels to Top Gun: Maverick (96% on Rotten Tomatoes) for its blockbuster appeal, with DailyMail calling F1 the “Top Gun for racing fans.” While it trails Rush (89%) and Ford v Ferrari (92%) in critical acclaim, its 78% score reflects strong approval.

The Sun’s Mark Daniell says it’s “packed with emotion, action, and a killer soundtrack,” making it a worthy successor to Kosinski’s aerial epic. The film’s blend of star power and spectacle positions it as a unique F1 tribute.

Highlights of F1  

• Release Date: June 27, 2025 (US); June 25, 2025 (international).

• Tomatometer: 78% Fresh (based on 40 reviews).

• Key Cast: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem.

• Authenticity: Filmed at real F1 races with cameos from Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and more.

• Runtime: 2 hours 35 minutes, rated PG-13.

• Best Format: IMAX recommended for immersive race sequences.

• Producers: Lewis Hamilton, Jerry Bruckheimer, Brad Pitt.

Some Closing Thoughts: Get Ready for a Turbo-Charged Blockbuster

F1 is speeding into theaters as a high-octane triumph, blending heart-pounding action with emotional depth and authentic F1 flair.

With Brad Pitt leading a stellar cast and Kosinski delivering another visual masterpiece, this film is poised to dominate the summer box office.

Buckle up for June 27, 2025, and join the conversation on X to share your excitement. Don’t miss F1—it’s the cinematic ride of the year!