Revving Up: Behind the Scenes of 'F1' with Brad Pitt and Damson Idris
Brad Pitt and Damson Idris underwent intense training by driving real race cars for two years to prepare for their roles in the upcoming Formula One racing movie, "F1." Pitt shared that they covered a total of 6,000 miles during their training, which he takes pride in. The film follows Sonny Hayes (Pitt), a retired Formula One driver who returns to the racing world to mentor a talented rookie, played by Idris, for the fictional Apex Grand Prix team. The star-studded cast also includes Javier Bardem, Kerry Condon, and Tobias Menzies.
To ensure authenticity, the actors collaborated closely with real Formula One drivers, including seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who is also a producer on the film. Idris expressed the exhilarating feeling of being behind the wheel and the opportunity to observe and learn from professional drivers during the filming process. Director Joseph Kosinski meticulously storyboarded the film for nearly a year, drawing inspiration from real-life events for every aspect of "F1," including the crash sequences. The major race scenes were shot at Formula One circuits worldwide, such as Silverstone in England.
Kosinski faced challenges filming during live sporting events, adhering to Formula One's tight schedule. This meant limited time for shooting scenes, with actors having only one or two takes to get it right in some instances. Idris, a British actor, described his experience stepping onto Silverstone as a significant moment, especially being surrounded by Formula One drivers and the electrifying atmosphere of the race track. The camaraderie and excitement shared by everyone on set, regardless of their career status, made the filming experience unforgettable and highlighted the allure of the Formula One world.
The premiere of "F1" is set for June 27, promising audiences a thrilling and authentic portrayal of the high-octane world of Formula One racing. Get ready to immerse yourself in the adrenaline-fueled drama and captivating performances of the cast as they bring the exhilarating sport to the big screen.