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From the Track to the Screen: F1 in Cinema

Formula 1 has been a significant source of inspiration for filmmakers, with several iconic films capturing the thrill, drama, and personal stories behind the sport.

Por: Rubén Carrillo
The film stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a former Formula One driver who returns from retirement / Photo F1 Movie
F1 (2025) stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a former Formula One driver who returns from retirement / Photo F1 Movie

Over the years, several films have brought the high-speed world of Formula 1 racing to the big screen, capturing both the thrill of the sport and the personal struggles of its drivers. 

 

Here are a selection of the most notable ones:

 

Grand Prix (1966)

Directed by John Frankenheimer, is one of the most iconic racing films ever made. 

 

It’s a high-octane drama that blends intense Formula 1 action with personal rivalries, romance, and behind-the-scenes politics of the sport. 

 

The film is renowned for its innovative cinematography, using split screens and onboard cameras to immerse audiences in the speed and danger of Grand Prix racing.

 

The story follows four drivers competing in the Formula 1 World Championship: the ambitious and reckless Jean-Pierre Sarti (Yves Montand), the struggling American Pete Aron (James Garner), the hot-headed Scott Stoddard (Brian Bedford), and the rising star Nino Barlini (Antonio Sabàto). 

 

As they battle on the track, their personal lives become just as complicated, involving love affairs, career setbacks, and tragic accidents.

The story follows four drivers competing in the Formula 1 World Championship: the ambitious and reckless Jean-Pierre Sarti / Photo archive
The story follows four drivers competing in the Formula 1 World Championship: the ambitious and reckless Jean-Pierre Sarti / Photo archive

Senna (2010)

It’s a documentary film about the life and career of legendary Brazilian Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna. 

 

Directed by Asif Kapadia, the film is unique because it relies entirely on archival footage.

 

Including race broadcasts, behind-the-scenes clips, and interviews, rather than traditional talking-head interviews.

 

The documentary follows Senna’s rise from his early karting days to his dominance in Formula 1, focusing particularly on his intense rivalry with Alain Prost and his deep connection with Brazil. 

 

It also explores his spiritual beliefs, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and the dangers of the sport.

The documentary follows Senna’s rise from his early karting days to his dominance in Formula 1 / Photo Formula 1
The documentary follows Senna’s rise from his early karting days to his dominance in Formula 1 / Photo Formula 1

Rush (2013) 

A biographical sports drama directed by Ron Howard, chronicling the intense rivalry between Formula 1 drivers James Hunt and Niki Lauda during the 1976 season. 

 

Starring Chris Hemsworth as Hunt and Daniel Brühl as Lauda, the film delves into their contrasting personalities, racing styles, and personal struggles.

 

The story follows their rise in the racing world, culminating in the dramatic 1976 season when Lauda suffered a life-threatening crash at the Nürburgring but made a miraculous recovery to compete again just weeks later. 

 

The film captures the high stakes, adrenaline, and danger of Formula 1, blending thrilling race sequences with deep character exploration.

The film captures the high stakes, adrenaline, and danger of Formula 1 / Photo Rush
The film captures the high stakes, adrenaline, and danger of Formula 1 / Photo Rush

Williams (2017) 

This British documentary film was directed by Morgan Matthews.

 

It tells the story of the Williams Formula 1 racing team, founded by Sir Frank Williams, and explores the family’s triumphs, struggles, and deep dedication to motorsport.

 

The documentary provides an intimate look at Frank Williams’ journey, from his early days in racing to building one of the most successful F1 teams in history. 

 

It also delves into the personal and professional sacrifices made along the way, particularly highlighting the impact of Frank’s life-changing car accident in 1986, which left him quadriplegic.

The documentary provides an intimate look at Frank Williams’ journey, from his early days in racing / Photo Williams
The documentary provides an intimate look at Frank Williams’ journey, from his early days in racing / Photo Williams

F1 (2025)

An upcoming American sports action drama film directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for “Top Gun: Maverick”.

 

The film stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a former Formula One driver who returns from retirement to mentor a young prodigy, Joshua “Noah” Pearce, portrayed by Damson Idris. 

 

The cast also includes Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, and Javier Bardem.

 

The plot centers on Sonny Hayes, who, after a devastating crash in the 1990s, steps away from Formula One racing. 

 

Years later, his friend and team owner, Ruben (Javier Bardem), convinces him to return as a mentor for the Apex Grand Prix team, guiding the talented rookie Noah Pearce.

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