Brad Pitt and Damson Idris
F1 directed by Joseph Konsinki has all the staple elements of an underdog story mixed in a sports template. However, what makes the movie work is the packaging, the car racing sequences have the right amount of thrills keeping the viewers on the edge. The behind-the-scenes chaos also adds a certain amount of gravity to the proceedings. Brad Pitt and Damson Idris lead the acting department
Starcast: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem and others
Genre: Sports
Direction and story: Joseph Konsinki
Screenplay: Ehren Kruger
Producers: Joseph Konsiki, Brad Pitt, Jerry Bruckheimier and others
Production Companies: Apple Studios, Dawn Apollo Films etc
Cinematography: Claudio Miranda
Music: Hans Zimmer
Sports movies across the world follow a certain template an individual rising out of ashes after a major incident and a team which is down and out. How the protagonist puts the team back on the map forms a major core. F 1 pretty much follows these rules however the way Joseph Konsinki uses the sport of Formula one racing makes a big difference. The movie perfectly fits the tag of popcorn entertainer something to be enjoyed on the big screen. Not surprisingly the film has been smashing records right, left and center.
The plot of F1 revolves around Sonny Hayes (a charismatic Brad Pitt). Sonny Hayes was a popular Formula one driver however a devastating crash turned the life of Sonny Hayes upside down. He is now working as a taxi driver in New York and also competing in underground races, things take a major turn when the Formula one team owner and friend Ruben Cervants( Javier Bardem) offers a comeback. Sonny now has a chance at beginning life fresh on the circuit, at the same time he is tasked with mentoring a rookie but talented Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris). This is the story in brief.
A standout aspect of F1 is the realistic racing sequences, as a viewer you are sucked into the world of racing even if you aren’t into watching Formula one races. The intense competition between the racers as one tries to outdo the other has been shot in a thrilling way. It gives goosebumps thanks to the wonderful cinematography of Claudio Miranda. Hans Zimmer’s background score also adds to the immersive experience; it contributes significantly to the high-octane thrills.
F1 also benefits from the portrayal of behind-the-scenes chaos coupled with the corporate politics among other things. These aspects add a compelling layer specifically for those who aren’t much acquainted with the world of racing.
The portrayal of the underdog team also makes the viewers root for Sonny Hayes, Joshua Pearce etc. How they take on the big giants like Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull relying on strength of will power is a treat to watch.
The dynamics between Sonny Hayes and Joshua Pearce from starting off on a not so friendly note and eventually becoming the perfect team has also been wonderfully written and enacted. The performances led by Brad Pitt and Damson Idris is first rate too. Brad Pitt’s Sonny Hayes is a mixture of cockiness and emotional depth, the actor nails both the shades. A particular mention must be made of his performance in the scenes with Kerry Condon playing an APXGP technical director. Damson Idris is equally compelling as a new age talent trying to strike a perfect balance between the demands of social media while focusing on his ambitions. Kerry Condon also stands her ground as a female proving her worth in a male bastion. Lastly Javier Bardem as the desperate team owner also makes his presence amply felt.
Final word: F1 is an edge of seat experience and perfect watch for those who want big screen spectacle.
