Brad Pitt’s latest film, F1, directed by Joseph Kosinski, has become the actor’s highest-grossing movie after earning $545.6 million worldwide since its launch on June 27, 2025. The film’s strong box office performance marks a new milestone for Pitt, surpassing his previous top earner, World War Z.
F1 quickly gained momentum, earning over $290 million within its first ten days of release. This success secured its position as Apple TV+’s highest-grossing film, overtaking Ridley Scott’s Napoleon. As new box office figures emerged, F1 continued to shatter records and affirm its global appeal.
Financial Context and Streaming Potential
Despite its commercial success, F1 has yet to reach its break-even point. The film’s production costs reportedly exceed $250 million, with an additional $150 to $175 million spent on marketing. Industry estimates place the break-even target at roughly $1 billion, a figure the film is halfway toward achieving.
The movie’s overall profitability is expected to improve once it begins streaming on Apple TV+, though no official release date for the streaming debut has been announced. Meanwhile, other films like Fantastic Four: First Steps continue to perform well at the box office, maintaining audience interest in theaters worldwide.
The Story Behind Brad Pitt’s Role in F1
F1 follows Sonny Hayes, played by Brad Pitt, a former Formula 1 racing champion who was forced to retire after a severe injury. Decades later, Hayes makes a comeback as one of the oldest drivers in the sport, recruited to lead a struggling team. The film’s plot centers on themes of resilience, redemption, and mentorship.
Sonny Hayes’s return to racing also involves mentoring a young, ambitious driver, adding a dynamic element of rivalry and collaboration. The movie features intense racing sequences and a high-stakes competitive atmosphere.
Ensemble Cast and Real-Life Formula 1 Integration
The cast of F1 includes Damson Idris as Joshua Pearce, the rookie driver paired with Hayes on the APXGP F1 team. Javier Bardem plays the owner of the team, with Kerry Condon as the technical director and Sonny’s love interest. Other notable actors include Kim Bodnia, Tobias Menzies, and Joseph Balderrama.
Although Simone Ashley was initially featured in a supporting role, her screen time was ultimately reduced to a brief cameo. In addition to Hollywood stars, the film incorporates real Formula 1 drivers from the 2024 season, filmed during actual racing events to enhance authenticity.
Among the real drivers featured are Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time World Driver’s Champion and one of the film’s producers, as well as Charles Leclerc of Ferrari and Max Verstappen of Red Bull. Their presence adds depth and realism to the racing sequences shown in the movie.
F1’s Impact and Future Expectations
Brad Pitt’s F1 is currently showing in cinemas worldwide and has redefined his career box office achievements. Its blend of high-octane action and personal storytelling has captivated audiences, setting new standards for racing films.
With the potential streaming release on Apple TV+ on the horizon, the film is poised to reach an even broader audience. The combination of star power, real racing footage, and an engaging narrative suggests that F1 will continue to hold significance in the sports film genre and for Brad Pitt’s career trajectory.