Brad Pitt’s F1 Races to No. 1 on Apple TV After $631M Box Office Run

Brad Pitt’s F1 has shifted into top gear on streaming, racing to the No. 1 spot on Apple TV’s movie chart following its June release. The film earned strong reviews and powered its way to an impressive $631.5 million global box office, and its streaming debut suggests it could remain a fixture at the top of the platform for some time.

Directed by Top Gun: Maverick filmmaker Joseph Kosinski, F1 stars Pitt as veteran driver Sonny Hayes, who returns to the sport decades after stepping away to help rescue a struggling Formula One team. The cast also includes Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, and Javier Bardem, with appearances from real-life F1 figures including producer Lewis Hamilton.

Despite its commercial success, the film carried a hefty production budget reportedly approaching $300 million, meaning profitability at the box office alone was never guaranteed. However, its surge on Apple TV highlights sustained audience interest, fueled in part by Pitt’s commitment to authenticity. He participated in real drivers’ briefings, performed at race events, and drove specially modified cars, minimizing the need for CGI or stunt doubles.

Production was complicated by the SAG-AFTRA strikes, which forced filming pauses and required crews to capture additional race footage during the 2024 F1 season. Still, the result was Apple Studios’ biggest movie to date, and the highest-grossing film of Pitt’s career.

Given its success, talk of a sequel is already gaining momentum. Kosinski recently revealed that early ideas are being discussed for a continuation of Sonny Hayes’ story and the APX GP team, noting the global response has made a follow-up feel like a natural next step. If schedules align, F1 may soon be lining up for another lap on the big and small screen.

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Written by

James Rees

A passionate motorsport journalist from Wales, with over 30 years of love for the sport. A dedicated father of three, working as a content manager, covering the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, Formula E, and IndyCar.

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