Rev Up Your Engines: A Fun-Filled Review of the Ultimate ‘Dad Movie’ – F1 on HeadStuff!

Sports movies often feel unnecessary. They hype up the drama and excitement of the game, even though watching live is where the true excitement lies. No film can replicate that thrill, especially in genres like racing.

Take motor racing movies, for instance. They often bounce between being cheesy hits, like Days of Thunder and early Fast and Furious films, and complete failures, such as Driven. Yet, the best ones embrace that “Dad Movie” vibe, providing fun without taking themselves too seriously.

The term “Dad Movie” has been thrown around quite a bit, usually describing films that appeal to men over 40. Racing films often fit this label perfectly. Ford v. Ferrari nails it, serving up excitement on the track while keeping things uncomplicated. In contrast, Ferrari might be too serious for this crowd. F1 (also known as F1: The Movie) exemplifies this category, blending high-speed action with predictable narratives and no major twists.

Brad Pitt takes the lead as Sonny Hayes, a washed-up driver with a weather-report-sounding name. Opening with him chilling in his van and doing pull-ups to Led Zeppelin, F1 isn’t a deep film. But Pitt’s charm shines through. He portrays a once-great driver seeking redemption, and while the plot feels familiar, Pitt’s style makes it enjoyable.

Javier Bardem, as Sonny’s former teammate Ruben, adds more swagger to the mix. His team may be struggling, but the movie focuses on internal challenges rather than external competitors like Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc, who make brief appearances. The fictional APX team is simply looking for a decent finish rather than a win.

Much of the film’s conflict revolves around Sonny’s rivalry with his ambitious new teammate, Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. Their relationship evolves, highlighting the clash between experience and youth, wrapped in a predictable arc of growth and setbacks. Pitt might not be pushed to his limits, but his charisma carries the film, along with a supporting cast that provides a sprinkle of depth. Kerry Condon stands out as Kate, the team engineer, adding a touch of humor and chemistry in her interactions with Pitt.

The racing sequences are thrilling, even with most actors hidden behind helmets. The camera work is dynamic and keeps viewers on edge. However, after a while, the high-speed action begins to blend together, making it feel repetitive. Unlike Top Gun: Maverick, which thrived on high stakes, F1 leans into its easygoing nature without pushing the envelope.

This isn’t necessarily a negative trait. In a world where many blockbusters overwhelm viewers with intricate plots, F1 offers a refreshing simplicity. It entertains without demanding too much from its audience, making it a perfect watch for dad and anyone looking for a good time.

This film is hitting theaters in the UK and Ireland from June 25. So, if you’re looking for a light-hearted thrill ride, F1 might be just what you need.

Source link