What the data shows
The recent success of the F1 movie raises an important question: How did a film centered around auto racing manage to capture the attention of audiences and critics alike? The answer lies in its compelling storytelling, star-studded cast, and impressive box office performance.
Released in June 2025, the F1 movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski, grossed over $630 million, making it the highest-grossing auto racing movie of all time. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by Tom Cruise’s Days of Thunder. The film’s financial success can be attributed to its engaging narrative and the popularity of its lead actors, including Brad Pitt and Damson Idris.
Filming for the F1 movie took place in Florida, with key scenes shot at the Rolex 24 at Daytona International Speedway in 2024. Notably, scenes featuring Brad Pitt were filmed at Pappas Drive-In and Family Restaurant in New Smyrna Beach, a location that has since been destroyed by an overnight fire in March 2025. This tragic event adds a layer of poignancy to the film’s legacy.
The F1 movie has not only achieved commercial success but has also garnered critical acclaim. It received four nominations for the 2026 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won the Oscar for Best Sound during the 98th annual Academy Awards held on March 15, 2026. This win highlights the film’s exceptional sound design, which captures the essence of motorsport, featuring engine noises, gear shifts, and the high-pitched whine of acceleration.
In addition to its Academy Award recognition, the film has been nominated for Golden Globes and Grammy Awards. The African-American Film Critics Association included it in their Top 10 movies of the year, awarding Damson Idris the title of Best Supporting Actor. Such accolades reflect the film’s impact on both audiences and critics, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
Currently, the F1 movie is available for streaming globally on Apple TV, allowing a wider audience to experience its thrilling narrative and impressive visuals. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and Joseph Kosinski, the film showcases the excitement of Formula One racing while also exploring the personal stories of its characters.
As the film continues to receive accolades and recognition, it remains to be seen how it will perform in upcoming award seasons and whether it will inspire more films in the motorsport genre. Details remain unconfirmed about potential sequels or spin-offs, but the success of the F1 movie has undoubtedly set a new standard for future racing films.