In the glitzy backdrop of Monaco, a special screening of the much-anticipated F1 movie took place, featuring none other than Brad Pitt. However, the event wasn’t without its share of drama, as seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton found himself on edge. The reason? A special preview was held just before the Monaco Grand Prix, yet notable absentees, Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll, were the talk of the town.
For Hamilton, the premiere was nerve-wracking. As he sat among fellow drivers and team bosses, anxiety loomed over him like a specter. Everyone’s eyes were glued to the screen for the first time, and Hamilton couldn’t help but feel tense. His worry was not unfounded – he wanted the drivers to approve, hoping they would see the film in a positive light. ‘I wanted them to think highly of it,’ he remarked, shedding light on the pressures of being a co-producer.
His sentiments echo the novelty of the film experience, as it uniquely captured real-life Formula 1 action, something never done before. Hamilton’s collaboration with famed director Joe Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer was an education in itself, delving into the intricacies involved in transforming a script into a full-fledged narrative. The opportunity to influence the film’s authenticity allowed him to address even the minor details, though he admitted, ‘there are parts where you’re like, ‘Hey, the timing may be off on a strategy stop,’ or whatever it might be.’
Meanwhile, the absence of Verstappen, a dominant figure on the F1 circuit, was explained by the driver himself. Although informed well in advance, his decision to skip the screening was not one of disregard but rather a choice to spend his private time on alternate pursuits. Instead, he engaged fans virtually through a Twitch stream, embodying his alter ego Franz Hermann. Verstappen expressed his willingness to catch the movie at a later date via an Apple download, unfazed by not being part of the premiere.
The film has generated buzz not just for its synopsis but also for its realistic portrayal of F1 racing, which keenly interests Hamilton. As he gazed around during the screening, he noted the favorable reactions of his peers. This unexpected element of real-time racing footage makes it a landmark creation, further heightened by Hamilton’s involvement. He openly shared his experiences working closely with the film’s creative minds, marking it as an ‘incredible experience.’
As for Verstappen, his acknowledgment of the film’s potential was evident. He stated, ‘I heard good stuff from the movie, so I’m sure that it’s going to be exciting.’ Despite not attending the viewing, his curiosity and optimism about the project’s impact were significant.
As the F1 movie gears up for its official release, the road to its debut is peppered with stories of anxious anticipation and celebrated milestones. For Lewis Hamilton, this screening wasn’t just about the film but also about validation from his peers. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s alternative engagement reflects the diverse nature of individual choices, even in the world of high-speed racing. The film promises a fresh take on the sport, one that blends the glamour of Hollywood with the pulse of F1 circuits.
