Damson Idris delivered a stunning performance during the filming of F1: The Movie by driving flat out through the notorious Copse corner at Silverstone, with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton watching closely. This Lewis Hamilton F1 movie moment marks an exhilarating highlight in the lead-up to the film’s global release, bringing a rare authenticity to the portrayal of Formula 1 racing.
Immersive Racing Experience on Real Circuits
The upcoming film follows Brad Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, a former F1 driver seeking a comeback, while Idris plays rookie driver Joshua Pearce. Their involvement went beyond acting, as both Pitt and Idris piloted modified Formula 2 cars on famous race tracks around the world. These vehicles were equipped with cameras to capture the actors’ raw, hands-on racing moments, enhancing the film’s realism.
Idris’s High-Speed Feat at Silverstone
During a recent interview on the F1 Nation podcast, Idris recounted the nerve-wracking moment when he confidently approached Copse corner at full throttle. Despite the corner’s reputation for its difficulty at high speed, Idris committed fully while Lewis Hamilton observed, adding to the pressure.
“I can confirm I was flat, and I did it in front of Lewis, too! Did it in front of Lewis. So that was a big one for me,”
—Damson Idris, Actor
This daring maneuver reflects Idris’s dedication to capturing the true spirit of racing and his commitment to the role.
From Lower-Tier Racing to Fearless Performance
Idris credited his prior experience driving Formula 4 and Formula 3 cars with helping build the confidence to tackle F2 challenges, despite being new to this level of competition. His willingness to embrace the difficulty head-on earned respect from seasoned racing professionals and brought genuine energy to his portrayal of the rookie driver Joshua Pearce.
Insights Gained from Close Interaction with F1 Drivers
Filming on renowned circuits like Silverstone allowed Idris to go beyond mere driving, offering him a chance to observe elite F1 drivers up close. This access helped him study their behaviors and nuances, which he incorporated into his performance, making his depiction more compelling and realistic.
Anticipation Builds for an Authentic Racing Drama
As F1: The Movie prepares for its worldwide debut, audiences can look forward to an intense, adrenaline-charged narrative filled with passion, ambition, and redemption. The film’s unique blend of authentic racing moments and strong performances promises to resonate with both motorsport fans and general viewers, elevating the F1 cinematic experience.