F1: The Movie

It’s been three weeks since I last saw Superman at the cinema, so I went out today with the intention of doing one of my signature double bill catch-ups. Alas, things didn’t quite work out that way and I wound up only getting the opportunity to see F1: The Movie.

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not particularly into Formula 1 or motor racing, but all things considered, this film was a lot of fun. Yeah, it’s nothing original or groundbreaking — and it’s also more than a little silly in areas — but it is incredibly entertaining. Director Joseph Kosinski did a superb job with Top Gun: Maverick, especially with its phenomenal aerial set pieces, and I’d say he brings much of that same spark to F1. The racing sequences are absolutely exhilarating and genuinely had me on the edge of my seat. Hell, I even enjoyed much of the non-racing drama, mostly for its incredible cast and the cheesy but charming dialogue. Brad Pitt is on top form and he has great chemistry with his co-stars, especially Damson Idris as his hotshot mentee and Kerry Condon as the technical director who becomes his love interest… Like I said, this movie is nothing original, but that’s fine with me as long as I’m invested in the story and characters and for the most part, I was.

Also, great sound design and a terrific score by Hans Zimmer to boot. It’s a pure thrill ride, the likes of which we don’t see too often, especially in our current IP-dominated, risk-averse cinematic climate. If you like an old-school cheesy blockbuster, this is worth checking out. Sadly, I didn’t get the chance to see it in IMAX, but even just seeing it on a regular cinema screen is still a treat in its own right.