‘F1’ is the latest high-octane blockbuster from director Joseph Kosinski (known for ‘Top Gun: Maverick’), bringing Hollywood horsepower to the world of Formula 1 racing. The film stars Brad Pitt (‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’) as a former F1 champion returning to the track, alongside rising star Damson Idris (‘Snowfall’) as a young rookie under his wing. With real-world F1 teams and tracks integrated into the production, ‘F1’ blurs the line between sport and spectacle, and it’s already racing to the top of the summer box office.

Here’s what the reviews are saying:

1. The Independent says “Brad Pitt vanity project F1 is just a bad version of Top Gun: Maverick” – Clarisse Loughrey calls it a “soulless endeavour… far too infatuated with the near‑mythical bravado of Pitt’s racing veteran”.

2. The Guardian takes a different take compared to The Independent. Pete Bradshaw describes it as “spectacular macho melodrama” sealed with slick direction. He praises Pitt’s charm and Kerry Condon’s grounding performance, while noting that the film remains delightfully “surreal and spectacular” .

3. Empire’s Sophie Butcher hails it as a classic “old‑school summer blockbuster”. She lauds the technical filmmaking and redemption arc that deliver a compelling cinematic experience .

4. Screen Rant sees the film as “essentially a two‑and‑a‑half‑hour commercial with a surprisingly compelling story”. Despite overt branding, the story and race sequences win the day.

‘F1’ might not be the most original or emotionally profound film of the year, and for some, its slick surfaces and brand-heavy presentation may feel more style than substance. But what it lacks in nuance, it makes up for in charm, pace, and sheer cinematic spectacle. With Brad Pitt’s effortless star power, Damson Idris’s grounded energy, and Joseph Kosinski’s confident direction, it’s a ride that keeps you engaged, even if you can see the finish line coming.

The Independent – 2 out of 5 stars

The Guardian – 4 out of 5 stars

Empire – 4 out of 5 stars

Screen Rant – 4 out of 5 stars