F1 Drivers Criticize Brad Pitt Racing Drama as Inaccurate, Over-Hollywoodized

Brad Pitt's latest film, F1: The Movie, which dramatizes the high-stakes world of Formula 1 racing, has generated significant attention both for its box office success and its portrayal of racing culture. The movie includes a harrowing crash scene inspired by real-life driver Martin Donnelly's near-fatal 1990 accident, with Pitt personally acknowledging Donnelly's influence during the premiere. Despite its commercial success—grossing $144 million globally and setting records for an Apple Original—the film has drawn mixed reviews, with critics citing a predictable script and Hollywood embellishments. Prominent F1 drivers like Fernando Alonso and Charles Leclerc praised the film's excitement and potential to attract new fans, although they noted some inaccuracies and dramatizations common to Hollywood adaptations. Comparisons have been drawn to Pitt's previous sports hit, Moneyball, emphasizing the challenge F1 faces to appeal beyond core fans to a wider audience. The film's promotional events, including high-profile racing simulator experiences and Pitt's own driving exploits, have further fueled public interest in the movie and the sport.