As someone who genuinely enjoys sports dramas—especially underdog stories about characters closer to my age—I found F1 not just entertaining, but surprisingly resonant. Directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), this high-speed, high-stakes racing film may follow familiar narrative roads, but it does so with such style, energy, and heart that it’s easy to overlook the predictability.
The film stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a once-famous Formula 1 driver coaxed out of retirement to help guide a new team and mentor an up-and-coming star, Joshua Pearce, played with fire and swagger by Damson Idris. Sonny’s comeback arc—older, a little beat up, but still sharp behind the wheel—acknowledges the realities of age, injury, and self-doubt without losing the thrill of a good fight. It allows space for a seasoned long shot to take center stage without sugarcoating what it takes to keep going.
Idris Elba, as Pearce, is a compelling contrast—talented, brash, and hungry. Their mentor-mentee dynamic is a core part of the story, and while it’s easy to see where things are headed, the fiery, charged chemistry between them makes the film more exciting and engaging. Sarah Niles delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Bernadette, Pearce’s mother, whose steady presence and quiet strength provide a grounding emotional core to Pearce’s turbulent journey. Her role adds depth to the narrative, showing the personal sacrifices and unspoken support behind Pearce’s drive to succeed.
Kerry Condon shines as the no-nonsense team engineer, one of the strong women playing key roles on the race team. Javier Bardem brings warmth and a touch of comic timing to the role of the team owner and Hayes’ former driving partner. While some characters fall into familiar archetypes, the authenticity and skill this cast brings to their roles elevate them beyond clichés, making the story all the more compelling. The ensemble works seamlessly together—like the best racing crews—delivering precision, tension, and camaraderie that add rich emotional layers to the film.
But what truly sets F1 apart is the racing. Kosinski doesn’t just direct races—he choreographs them. Filmed with real Formula 1 teams and tech, the on-track action feels immersive, dangerous, and exhilarating. Viewers are not just watching—they are right there in the cockpit, white-knuckled with every gear shift and hairpin turn.
Yes, the story leans on tried-and-true beats—the comeback, the mentoring, the redemption—but it doesn’t feel lazy. It feels timeless. For those of us who’ve lived a little, who know what it’s like to be counted out or to question whether we still have it in us, Sonny’s journey feels both personal and satisfying. There’s a quiet strength in how the film lets experience take the spotlight without turning it into a lecture or a gimmick.
F1 isn’t just about speed. It’s about endurance. About second chances. And about proving that experience, grit, and heart still matter—even on the fastest track in the world. It doesn’t try too hard to tug at emotions—it earns them through sharp pacing, solid performances, and a clear respect for the sport. For fans of sports dramas, it’s an intense and satisfying entry in the genre.