Countless racing films have graced the screen, but it can be said with certainty that F1: The Movie was the most intense and thrilling experience among them. While driving is a daily activity, the world of racing—a concentration of extreme speed, technology, and capital—always sparks a special kind of interest. This film overwhelms the audience from the very beginning by fully capturing on screen a sense of speed and competitive tension unimaginable on ordinary roads. The movie goes beyond simply enjoying speed, successfully conveying the depth and charm of the sport of racing to the audience.
Car racing, especially Formula 1 (F1), is a sport that boasts an enormous global fanbase. Although its popularity might feel somewhat unfamiliar in Korea, F1 is a massive industry, so much so that it's called the "pinnacle of capitalism" where unimaginable amounts of money are in play. Astronomical costs are invested in building and maintaining a single machine, and numerous global corporations participate as sponsors to cover these expenses. The logos that fill the drivers' suits and the cars' exteriors visually attest to how fierce a battleground of capital and technology this sport truly is.
The reason F1 transcends being a mere sport to become a technological battleground is precisely because the world's leading car manufacturers stake their reputations on it. Brands like Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, and Renault aim to prove the superiority and innovation of their automotive technology to the world by winning an F1 Grand Prix. A victory on the track is directly linked to brand prestige, making it the most reliable marketing strategy that immediately translates into sales. The film delicately captures this unseen, fierce competition among manufacturers, adding depth to the story.
In modern racing films, the most crucial element is undoubtedly "immersion." Audiences, accustomed to sophisticated racing simulation games, no longer want to just watch a race; they desire a vivid experience, as if they were sitting in the driver's seat themselves. F1: The Movie perfectly meets this demand. Its innovative camerawork and realistic sound design deliver an ultimate sense of immersion that makes palms sweat, conveying the feeling of speeds exceeding 300 km/h, the immense g-forces in the corners, and the deafening roar of the engines as if they might burst.
Of course, as dramatic devices are added for cinematic entertainment, there are also assessments that the realism falls somewhat short for actual F1 personnel or hardcore fans. It's pointed out that the race progression or the use of certain strategies is somewhat distant from the complex and sophisticated world of real F1. Even to an audience not deeply familiar with racing, some scenes might feel a bit exaggerated. However, this is an intentional device to make the film accessible to a general audience unfamiliar with F1, and it can be evaluated as a clever choice to maximize cinematic fun.
The film also tackles concerns about the age of Brad Pitt, who plays the protagonist 'Sonny Hayes,' head-on. The premise of an actor in his late 50s returning as an active F1 driver to aim for victory could easily seem far-fetched. However, the movie cleverly adds credibility to this setup early on by mentioning a real-life legendary driver who won a race in his 50s. This serves as a smart device that adds deep emotion and a sense of reality to the protagonist's narrative of overcoming the limits of age to make a comeback.
Another virtue of F1: The Movie is its friendliness towards "beginners" who know nothing about F1. The film uses the voice of an expert commentator to naturally explain the complex rules and terminology of F1. By providing timely information on easily missed technical details—such as why tires need to be changed, how a pit stop affects rankings, and in what situations the DRS (Drag Reduction System) is used—it helps the audience understand and enhances their viewing pleasure.
The movie clearly shows that racing is not just about driving around a track quickly. The importance of tires, in particular, is highlighted as a key strategic element that determines the outcome of the race. The timing of a pit-in must be decided based on tire degradation, and the temporary drop in ranking must be endured. The film portrays this pit stop strategy not as a simple tire change, but as a fierce strategic battle that can turn the tide of the race, teaching the audience about the subtleties of F1 strategy.
Of course, many types of motorsports exist in the world, such as desert-crossing rallies or 24-hour endurance races. However, the reason F1 is called the "pinnacle of motorsport" among them is due to its history, tradition, and symbolism. The film respects F1's status and maximizes realism by featuring a large number of actual F1 teams and drivers. The appearance of real star drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, is an unparalleled gift for F1 fans and a crucial element that enhances the film's authenticity.
The episode on the night before the climactic final race, which lasts for more than 20 minutes, feels a bit long-winded and leaves a slight sense of disappointment. However, apart from this section, every moment of the film is filled with excitement. The coexistence and conflict between the retired veteran and the ambitious rookie, and the process of their growth through each other, create a moving drama that transcends a simple racing movie. Befitting its title as a film celebrating the 75th anniversary of F1, it was an overwhelming masterpiece that keeps you glued to the screen for its entire 155-minute runtime without a single dull moment.
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