Motor racing-Drivers hail Pitt's F1 movie as a hit after Monaco screening
FILE PHOTO: Formula One F1 - Mexico City Grand Prix - Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City, Mexico - October 26, 2024 Actor Brad Pitt waves at fans during filming for an F1-inspired movie REUTERS/Raquel Cunha/File Photo
MONACO (Reuters) - Formula One drivers declared Brad Pitt's new F1 movie a winner that would bring fresh fans to the sport after being given an exclusive pre-release screening at the Monaco Grand Prix.
The Apple Original film, with action scenes filmed at race weekends with the sport's cooperation, is due in cinemas internationally on June 25 and in North America on June 27.
Formula One is hoping it will be an even bigger hit than the Netflix "Drive to Survive" docu-series that has helped raise the sport's appeal globally and take it to a new and younger demographic.
"Honestly, I enjoyed the whole thing," Williams driver Carlos Sainz, sworn to secrecy on the plot like all those present, told reporters on Thursday. "There were things that really surprised me.
"Not talking about the story, but the quality of footage they got. It's insane. Honestly insane. That's for me the best part of all of it.
"The team have done an outstanding job in putting together a very good Hollywood movie."
Haas rookie driver Oliver Bearman, 20, agreed.
"I think it really depicts in a great way what we go through, in a bit of a Hollywood way as you would expect, but that makes it really interesting," said the Briton.
"I think the goal of the movie is going to be achieved. I think it's going to be a huge hit and it's going to make people want to watch F1, which is really the goal of it."
Directed by Joseph Kosinski of "Top Gun: Maverick" fame, the movie also stars Javier Bardem as owner of a team on the verge of failure.
British actor Damson Idris is hotshot Joshua Pearce alongside ageing redemption-seeking racer Sonny Hayes, played by Pitt who is 61 in real life.
Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton, a co-producer, has said the movie will deliver an authentic feel.
"The storytelling is really cool and the images are just incredible," said Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, who won his home Monaco race last year.
Red Bull boss Christian Horner also gave a glowing verdict.
"We are probably the worst possible audience to watch that movie because you're going to look and scrutinise every detail, every gear change, every pit stop, and it was very authentic," said the Briton.
Red Bull's reigning four-times world champion Max Verstappen, new father of a baby daughter, was a prominent absentee.
"I wanted to spend more private time," he said. "There was the opportunity to watch it but if we watch it now or in three or four weeks its fine as well."
(Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Ed Osmond)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hype Malaysia
a day ago
- Hype Malaysia
Tommy Hilfiger Drops Motorcore-Fuelled APXGP Collection Inspired By Brad Pitt's New F1® Movie
Style is in the lead, fashionistas! Tommy Hilfiger fuels the connection between fashion, motorsport and cinematic storytelling with the launch of The APXGP Collection, ahead of the premiere of F1® The Movie in North America on 27th June 2025, and internationally beginning 26th June 2025. Fronted by F1® The Movie's breakout star and TOMMY HILFIGER Brand Ambassador Damson Idris, the campaign captures his full-throttle rise – embodying the fearless drive and effortless style that define his journey. As the momentum around the 'motorcore' dressing trend accelerates, the collection leads one of summer's most defining trends, where the innovation of racing meets bold colours, sleek silhouettes, and high-energy detail. 'Working with the Tommy Hilfiger team and on F1® The Movie has been an unforgettable ride – an authentic blend of iconic style and cinematic power,' said Damson Idris. 'Tommy's vision has always been about pushing culture forward, and that energy runs through every part of this partnership. From The APXGP Collection and everything we've done to bring the film to life for audiences, it all channels that same fearless spirit – capturing the grit to succeed on the track and the confidence to own every moment of it.' The APXGP Collection reflects the rising influence of Formula 1™ beyond the track, as drivers become fashion's latest tastemakers and paddock style shapes trends worldwide. Capturing the spirit of the 'motorcore' movement, the range fuses speed with sophistication. Moto-emblazoned mechanic shirts, a varsity-meets-moto jacket in vegan leather, tailored Japanese denim jeans, and a merino knit polo bring a sophisticated take on trackside style. A red quilted jacket – modeled after the exact silhouette worn by Damson Idris' character in the film – injects on-screen excitement into the lineup, bridging the gap between refined style and off-duty ease. 'Since I was a kid peeking through the fences at Watkins Glen racetrack, Formula 1™ has been legendary to me,' said Tommy Hilfiger.' As F1® has opened its doors to new worlds like entertainment and fashion, the sport has become a cultural phenomenon. 'Building on almost 40 years of infusing the colours, logos and spirit of motorsport into our collections, we're thrilled to join Hollywood at the racetrack by partnering with F1® The Movie. This film captures the cultural shift, setting a benchmark in what we call 'fashiontainment', where the future is being shaped. It's a bold new chapter, and we're setting the pace for what comes next,' he added. Tommy Hilfiger's lifelong love for Formula 1™ has fuelled his brand's racing-inspired style since the '90s. Now, that passion shifts into high gear with the APXGP Collection, launched after Damson Idris made headlines by arriving at the Met Gala in an APXGP car. As the official fashion sponsor of the upcoming F1® The Movie, Tommy Hilfiger outfits the fictional APXGP Team, led by characters Joshua Pearce (Idris) and Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), blending iconic racing heritage with bold, cinematic flair. Catch F1® The Movie in theatres and IMAX starting 26th June internationally and 27th June in North America, and shop the APXGP Collection from 3rd June 2025, at Tommy Hilfiger stores, and select retailers worldwide. What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
The Star
a day ago
- The Star
Motor racing-Wheatley confident Audi will be winners in F1
FILE PHOTO: Formula One F1 - Emilia Romagna Grand Prix - Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, Imola, Italy - May 18, 2025 Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley arrives ahead of the race REUTERS/Jakub Porzycki/File Photo (Reuters) -Timing is everything in Formula One and Jonathan Wheatley reckons he got his right in leaving Red Bull, the team with the most race wins and drivers' titles this century, to become principal of Sauber. The Swiss-based team will become the Audi works outfit from next season but were at the bottom of the standings until Nico Hulkenberg's fifth place in Spain last Sunday raised them two places to eighth. Sauber have won only once since 1993 -- in 2008 when owned by BMW -- and there are nagging questions about how competitive the 2026 engine will be, with early reports not encouraging. But Wheatley said they had all the building blocks for success. "We're looking at a campus expansion, we've got an ambitious program ahead of us and investment from Audi and QIA (Qatar Investment Authority). I'm really, really super-excited about where we're at," the Briton told Reuters. "I do not come to work to make up the numbers. I absolutely believe that we'll get on that path and we'll be winning races and world championships." Wheatley has decades of experience, now in his 35th year in Formula One after starting as a junior mechanic with Benetton. He joined Red Bull from Renault in 2006 and was sporting director when he left at the end of last season. With Red Bull he won six constructors' titles, eight drivers' titles and 120 grands prix. He was also instrumental in securing Max Verstappen's first title in 2021 after a radio conversation with race director Michael Masi triggered a fateful change to the safety car procedure. The Briton said such experiences had shaped him and would help in his new role, which he started in April. "The radio transcripts in Abu Dhabi showed the extreme competitive passion from all the teams and I can't begin to tell you what that feels like on the pitwall in a world championship life or death situation," he said. "There's a lot of people in my position in the sport who are intensely competitive. I've absolutely absorbed myself in that (at Red Bull) and I'm absorbing myself here. It really genuinely feels like my team already and I've only been here two months." Wheatley said the move to principal felt "entirely natural" and, unlike that from Renault to Red Bull, had involved no agonising. Red Bull had the most dominant season in Formula One history in 2023, winning 21 of 22 races, but were then in the firing line. Team boss Christian Horner faced allegations, of which he was cleared, of improper conduct towards a female employee. Relations with Verstappen's father Jos soured and star designer Adrian Newey announced his departure for Aston Martin. Wheatley, who could have stayed, said his decision was all about future opportunity. "There was a huge amount of talented people in that team over the whole period I was there. I've learned from as many of them as I could... we knitted a team together there and we did something quite extraordinary. "I absolutely loved that initial stage of transforming a team and then I kind of wanted to do it again... the idea of coming to this team in this transition period at this point in history was enormously attractive to me." While former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto heads the Audi project, Wheatley is in charge at the track and plans to attend all the races. "It's going to take time, but where we're starting from is a good place," he said. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Toby Davis)
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
Sentosa Development Corporation And Mount Faber Leisure Group Celebrate SG60 With ‘Peranakan Reimagined' Showcase
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 5 June 2025 - Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and Mount Faber Leisure Group (MFLG) have collaborated to transform Sentosa for 'Peranakan Reimagined' — a vibrant showcase that reimagines Peranakan culture through a contemporary lens. A double celebration in commemoration of SG60 as well as the 10th year anniversary of the Singapore Cable Car – Sentosa Line, this showcase will run from 23 May to 31 August 2025. The Peranakan Reimagined weaves a tapestry of nostalgia and heritage with immersive storytelling, inviting visitors to rediscover the richness of Peranakan culture through vibrant installations, projection artworks, performances, and workshops and specially curated Peranakan dining experiences across Sentosa. The showcase pays tribute to Peranakan heritage as a part of Singapore's cultural identity, while reimagining it for today's audiences. Sensoryscape: A Cultural Playground for your Senses At Sensoryscape, which is centered around the engagement of the five senses and the sixth sense of imagination, the Peranakan Reimagined showcase transforms the multi-sensorial thoroughfare into a bold celebration of culture, brought to life through immersive larger-than-life displays where guests can see, hear, touch, and experience Peranakan heritage reimagined for today's audiences. At the heart of the experience stands a striking 7.2-metre-tall Peranakan-inspired house at Lookout Loop, aptly named The Peranakan House — a stunning photo spot by day that transforms into a vivid projection-mapped canvas by night. A grand reimagination of a traditional Peranakan home, this larger-than-life centrepiece adorned with intricate detailing and bold colours is a tribute to the artistry and elegance of Peranakan design. A visual journey unfolds through a curated collection of photographs within the centrepiece with contributions by various partners, capturing the spirit of various Peranakan communities. As the sun sets, The Peranakan House comes alive with a whole new nighttime experience, with dynamic multimedia storytelling and projection artwork, illuminating the rich textures of past Peranakan life — from its intricate motifs and architecture to beloved cuisine and traditions which can be admired from different angles while strolling along Lookout Loop. Within the Field of Beaded Blooms at Tactile Trellis, guests can also look forward to an immersive day to night experience, where the garden's 198 panels have been transformed with vibrant designs inspired by the intricate beadwork of kasut manek - traditional Peranakan slippers. At the heart of Tactile Trellis, stands a pair of larger-than-life beaded Peranakan slippers where guests are invited to experience and feel the intricacy of Peranakan craftsmanship. Come nighttime, a new light show at Tactile Trellis brings batik motifs to life through stunning digital light art displays. As guests continue their journey down Sensoryscape, dotted throughout the main walkway, guests can discover the Giant in Grace @ The Walkway. The resting areas that line the entire stretch have been transformed into a showcase of larger-than-life Peranakan-inspired installations, including traditional Peranakan storage jars known as kamcheng, ornate teapot sets, wedding baskets, sequinned artworks and more. The sequinned installations reveal an unexpected transformation when viewed through a camera lens, surprising visitors with fresh perspectives of familiar Peranakan icons. Beyond Tactile Trellis and Lookout Loop, the other gardens of Sensoryscape have been refreshed to showcase different aspects of Peranakan culture that engage all senses. The showcase spans from traditional food displays complete with recipes contributed by the partners - to fashion with kebaya displays, musical instruments and various other cultural replica artifacts. These thoughtfully curated exhibits and displays are designed to provide guests with a multi-sensorial experience of Peranakan culture, reimagined in a whole new way. Adding to the Peranakan atmosphere, Sensoryscape will come alive with vibrant live music performances by Peranakan singing group, Peranakan Sayang, and the monthly Sentosa Festive Market at Palawan Beach Walk will be complemented by Peranakan-inspired workshops such as felt beaded slipper making and more. Singapore Cable Car - Sentosa Line: A Moving Tribute To mark the 10th anniversary of the Sentosa Line, the cable car cabins have been transformed with vibrant Peranakan-inspired designs. Each cabin features a striking palette of pastel hues, ornate tiles, and intricate motifs, taking inspiration from the historic shophouses of Koon Seng Road — once home to Singapore's Peranakan community. Developed with the creative input of Baba Alvin Yapp of The Intan Peranakan Home Museum, these heritage-inspired cabins turn the skies above Sentosa into a moving tribute to Peranakan culture, offering guests an aerial preview of the island-wide celebration as they journey across Sentosa's golden beaches and coastal forests. As part of the celebrations, local residents can also enjoy special 1-for-1 Sentosa Line promotions between 23 May to 31 August 2025 — including a Sentosa Line round trip for two at only $4 (U.P. $4 per adult, $3 per child) or 1-day unlimited rides for two at $14 (U.P. $27 per adult, $22 per child). This promotion is available only for tickets purchased at the Sentosa Line — Sensoryscape Station Ticketing Counter and the Guest Service Centre at Sensoryscape. Sensoryscape Cable Car Station: Celebration of Kebaya Heritage In celebration of the kebaya's inscription on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024, a special showcase is now on display at both levels of the Sensoryscape Cable Car Station. Curated with recommendations from The Peranakan Association Singapore, the exhibition features eight distinctive kebayas by four acclaimed Singaporean designers, each offering a fresh interpretation of this iconic garment. Among the highlights is Kebaya Biku by Baba Raymond Wong of Rumah Kim Choo — a replica of the kebaya designed for actress Tasha Low's character in the hit TV series Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story. Other featured designers include Ratianah Tahir, known for her timeless Malay and Peranakan silhouettes; Kavita Thulasidas, who brings bold, cross-cultural flair; and Ada Goh, whose vibrant, nature-inspired batik artistry adds a contemporary twist. Together, their creations celebrate the kebaya's enduring legacy and evolving relevance. Guests can also visit the Sentosa Shop @ Sensoryscape to enjoy a kebaya dress-up experience, browse a curated selection of kebayas and beaded shoes, and shop a range of Peranakan-inspired merchandise. Siloso Point Cable Car Station: Craft, Cuisine and Culture At Siloso Point Station, visitors can experience Peranakan heritage through two striking tiffin carrier installations — one standing at 1.8 metres and the other at 1.6 metres — inspired by The Intan Peranakan Home Museum's collection. One installation also showcases three larger-than-life traditional Nyonya kuehs: Kueh Ku, Rainbow Kueh Lapis, and Kueh Salat. On weekends, a rotating line-up of workshops offers hands-on activities such as mini clay kueh-making and embroidery. These interactive sessions invite guests to engage with traditional crafts through a refreshed and reimagined perspective. Bringing Heritage to Life on Sentosa Peranakan Reimagined is part of SDC's ongoing commitment to creating meaningful and immersive experiences that celebrate Singapore's rich and diverse heritage. This vibrant showcase across Sentosa pays tribute to the rich legacy of Peranakan culture as part of Singapore's multicultural identity. Through contemporary interpretations and multisensory storytelling, Peranakan Reimagined not only honours the past but also invites new generations to connect with this unique cultural heritage in fresh and engaging ways. The showcase transforms the space into a canvas to celebrate history, spark interest, and deepen community bonds. 'As Singapore's premier leisure destination, we are proud to present Peranakan Reimagined in celebration of SG60. Set against the backdrop of our award-winning, multi-sensorial Sensoryscape, this vibrant and colourful showcase promises to captivate the senses and elevate every visitor's experience,' said Thien Kwee Eng, Chief Executive Officer of Sentosa Development Corporation. 'Through this showcase, we reaffirm our commitment to creating engaging experiences and delivering memorable moments for all our guests. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our partners for their invaluable contributions in bringing Peranakan Reimagined to life.' 'The 10th anniversary of the Singapore Cable Car's Sentosa Line marks a decade of sun, sand and scenic rides and it is our pleasure to be celebrating this key milestone alongside Sentosa Development Corporation through our very first thematic showcase on the Sentosa Line,' said Buhdy Bok, Managing Director at Mount Faber Leisure Group. 'We are also truly honoured to be collaborating with The Intan to pay homage to Singapore's unique Peranakan heritage, bringing the unique traditions, arts and culinary delights of Peranakan culture to life in this special SG60 year.' On top of the Peranakan Showcase, Sentosa is also offering various Peranakan-inspired workshops, deals and dining promotions across the island in celebration of SG60. Sentosa Islander members can also redeem a pair of Sentosa Line cable car tickets with a minimum spend of $40 at participating restaurants or shops from now till 31 August 2025. This showcase is made possible through collaboration with the following partners: Baba Alvin Yapp of The Intan Peranakan Home Museum, Baba Gabra, Baba Richard Tan, Baba Raymond Wong of Rumah Kim Choo, Barry Yeow, Cynthia Wee-Hoefer, Gunong Sayang Association, Nyonya Christine Ong Kiat Neo (author of Nyonya Kebaya: Intricacies of the Peranakan Heritage), Peranakan Indian (Chitty Melaka) Association of Singapore, Peranakan Mansion, Peranakan Museum, Pulau Pulao, Tina Tan Leo and The Peranakan Association Singapore.
