'F1' scores Apple's largest theatrical opening with $55 million
Apple's new sports drama, F1: The Movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt as a retired Formula One driver, has become Apple's biggest box office hit so far.
The film follows Sonny Hayes (Pitt) as he returns to mentor rookie Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris) at the fictional APXGP team, with racing scenes shot during real Grand Prix weekends.
F1 legend Lewis Hamilton co-produced and helped make the racing feel authentic.
The movie outpaced other releases like 'How to Train Your Dragon'
The movie pulled in $144 million worldwide on its opening weekend—$55.6 million from the US and $88.4 million internationally—even though its budget was over $200 million.
IMAX and large-format screenings made up 55% of domestic sales, helping it outpace other releases like How to Train Your Dragon ($19.4 million) and M3gan 2.0 ($10.2 million).
Should you watch it? Here's what critics say
If you're into fast-paced sports dramas with realistic action and strong performances, this one's for you.
Critics have praised its intense racing scenes and authentic Formula One vibe—thanks in part to Hamilton's input—and audiences gave it an "A" CinemaScore.
It's easily Apple's most successful theatrical release yet, so if you love racing or just want a high-energy movie night, F1: The Movie is worth checking out!