F1 Movie Review: Is it Worth the Hype?

The recent film “F1,” directed by Joseph Kosinski and featuring Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, attempts to capture the high-octane world of Formula One racing while delivering an underwhelming experience for viewers. In this narrative, Hayes is portrayed as a once-celebrated driver who, after a catastrophic accident, has fallen from grace, leading to a life of mediocrity filled with questionable choices. However, unlike any true underdog story, he swiftly regains his prowess and confidence, becoming a flawless character devoid of real flaws or growth. This decision strips the film of emotional depth and character complexity, fundamentally undermining the thrilling premise that initially draws audiences in, resulting in a viewing experience that feels more like a corporate advertisement rather than a gripping sports drama.

Moreover, while the cinematography and high-speed sequences showcase Kosinski’s ability to create compelling visuals, it repeatedly falls flat in storytelling. The film appears overly devoted to flattering Formula One, presenting it as an infallible institution with no room for criticism or rivalries, which ultimately leads to a lack of tension and stakes in the plot. Characters like Sonny and his young rival Joshua Pierce lack the necessary development to engage viewers emotionally, and the dialogue fails to resonate, often feeling simplistic and redundant. This lack of substance, alongside the constant product placements, positions “F1” as an entertaining spectacle but fails to encapsulate the adrenaline and drama that motorsport fans crave.

The film deliberately shuns any negativity surrounding the sport, opting instead for a glossy surface that leaves little room for real conflict or character evolution. Despite its impressive cast, including Javier Bardem as Ruben and Kerry Condon as Kate, the performances struggle against one-dimensional roles and a predictable script. As a result, while some might appreciate its aesthetic appeal and a few exciting scenes at renowned Grand Prix locations, “F1” ultimately disappoints those seeking a genuinely engaging story that captures the essence of competition and personal struggle in the world of motorsport.

Plot Overview of ‘F1’

The film ‘F1’ follows the story of Sonny Hayes, played by Brad Pitt, a former Formula One champion who has fallen from grace after a devastating crash. The narrative is introduced through flashbacks, revealing Sonny’s struggles with personal demons and professional failures, which include failed relationships and a life of mediocrity.

Sonny’s journey is reignited when his friend Ruben, portrayed by Javier Bardem, encourages him to return to racing, offering a chance to revive his career with a struggling Formula One team. Despite the promise of redemption, the film lacks the depth to explore Sonny’s past trauma and the challenges of re-entering a highly competitive sport.

As the plot unfolds, Sonny’s character quickly shifts from a washed-up racer to a seemingly invincible figure, displaying profound tactical acumen and leadership qualities without the expected struggle of overcoming his past issues. This portrayal raises questions about character development and emotional engagement throughout the film.

Summary

In a critical review, Nicholas Barber assesses the new F1 film starring Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a washed-up former Formula One champion attempting a comeback. Despite its sleek production under the direction of Joseph Kosinski and the excitement of real racing circuits, the film falls flat due to its clichéd storyline and the lack of emotional depth. Sonny’s character transitions seamlessly from a troubled past to a flawless present without any real growth or tension, making it difficult for viewers to engage with his journey. The film is criticized for being more of a corporate promotional tool that overly glorifies Formula One, offering little complexity or conflict, leaving audiences more invested in the thrills of past films like Star Wars than in F1’s formulaic narrative. Overall, while technically well-crafted, the film misses the mark in delivering a compelling sports drama.