F1 (2025) Review: Speed, Redemption, and Brad Pitt’s Joyful Ride

Veteran driver Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) comes out of retirement to mentor rising rookie Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris) while racing alongside him on the Formula One circuit. With team owner Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem) and engineer Kate McKenna (Kerry Condon) pushing the struggling team forward, Sonny must confront his past mistakes and discover if redemption is possible on and off the track.

F1 thrives as more than just a racing spectacle. The film invites us to reflect on perseverance, humility, and legacy—universal themes Christians know well. Sonny Hayes’ journey is not simply about victory but about mentoring, second chances, and finishing the race with character. For believers, this recalls Paul’s exhortation to run with endurance, not for a fading trophy but for an eternal crown. Even if the film isn’t a sermon, it celebrates perseverance, teamwork, and redemption in ways that resonate with the call to live faithfully and guide the next generation.

Joseph Kosinski blends the thrill of Top Gun: Maverick with the high-speed world of Formula One. The story is straightforward but engaging: part comeback tale, part mentor-student drama. Unlike many racing movies that drown in clichés, F1 keeps its narrative entertaining and well-paced, with just enough character drama to balance the spectacle. While hardcore racing fans may balk at the unrealistic details, Kosinski knows his aim—excitement and accessibility—and delivers it with flair.

Brad Pitt carries the film with ease, bringing charisma, warmth, and humor to Sonny Hayes. He’s fun to watch in every scene. Damson Idris brings energy and conviction as the rookie Pearce, while Javier Bardem and Kerry Condon ground the team with gravitas and wit. What works best is how evenly the cast is used—everyone contributes meaningfully, avoiding the “forgotten side character” problem that plagues many blockbusters. Together, they create a story that feels lively and balanced.

Rated PG-13, the film includes racing violence, crashes, and some language but avoids excessive content. Families with teens can enjoy it together, and even non-racing fans will find it entertaining. Those looking for realism may be frustrated, but those wanting an uplifting, high-energy spectacle with themes of redemption will leave satisfied.