Brad Pitt and Damson Idris recall their heartfelt interactions with the Formula One drivers

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Brad Pitt and Damson Idris are gearing up to bring adrenaline and authenticity to the big screen in their highly anticipated racing film, F1. As part of the promotional tour, the actors opened up during a recent press conference about their immersive experiences with real Formula One drivers while filming. Their reflections painted a vivid picture of camaraderie, admiration, and deep appreciation for the world of professional racing. Both Pitt and Idris credited the drivers not only for their technical insights but also for their warmth, which made the cast feel truly welcomed in what could otherwise have been an intimidating environment.

Damson Idris spoke first, highlighting the kindness and enthusiasm shown by the drivers throughout the production. He singled out Carlos Sainz, sharing how the driver frequently visited the garage and even tried sneaking into shots for fun, hinting at a cheeky enthusiasm for the film. Idris also praised Lewis Hamilton’s presence on set, saying he brought a contagious energy and helped ground the film in reality. As one of the movie’s producers, Hamilton played a crucial role in advising the team, ensuring that every racing element reflected the authenticity of the sport. Idris called his involvement “a dream come true,” and emphasized how vital it was to have someone of Hamilton’s caliber to call out anything that didn’t ring true within the world of Formula One.

Brad Pitt echoed these sentiments, describing the experience of working alongside the F1 community as “incredible.” He explained that building trust with the drivers and teams was essential from the start, and their participation gave the project legitimacy and depth. Pitt recounted how he and the team attended driver meetings to show their genuine respect for the sport and their commitment to portraying it accurately. He praised director Joseph Kosinski for his decision to bring Hamilton on board as a producer, calling it a “smart move” because of the unmatched knowledge and insight Hamilton brought to the table. Pitt noted that they held many in-depth discussions with the British champion, which helped the cast and crew gain a more profound understanding of the sport’s nuances and emotional stakes.

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The actors’ personal reflections shed light on just how deeply the production has embedded itself within the real-life F1 universe. Rather than a distant interpretation, F1: The Movie appears to be an intimate, respectful, and thrilling homage to the sport, bolstered by genuine relationships and firsthand involvement. With a cast that includes Simone Ashley, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem, and more, and with Joseph Kosinski at the helm, the film promises to deliver both heart and horsepower when it hits theaters on June 27.