Everything will be CGI / AI … !?

"The Return of Realism: Inside F1, the Movie That Brings Practical Effects Back to Life"

When it comes to adrenaline-fueled cinema, few actors can command the screen like Brad Pitt. In the upcoming feature film F1, Pitt teams up with rising star Damson Idris to take audiences on a visceral journey into the world of Formula 1 racing. What sets this film apart isn’t just its A-list star power or compelling story, but its commitment to authenticity. Unlike many racing films that rely heavily on CGI, F1 revs up the realism by using actual race cars on iconic tracks during the 2023 and 2024 racing seasons. This bold move has not only raised the bar for racing films but also brought unique challenges to the art of cinematography.

Real Cars, Real Tracks, Real Speed

F1 isn’t just a movie; it’s a celebration of motorsport. Director Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick) and producer Jerry Bruckheimer have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in filmmaking by choosing to capture live racing action with real cars. Filming took place at legendary circuits such as Silverstone, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, and the Red Bull Ring, where professional drivers piloted state-of-the-art Formula 1 cars at blistering speeds.

Brad Pitt and Damson Idris didn’t just play drivers; they became them. Both actors underwent intensive training to handle the unique demands of racing. Pitt, in particular, performed many of his own stunts, adding a layer of authenticity that CGI simply can’t replicate. This approach immerses viewers in the raw power and precision of motorsport, making every scene feel like you’re trackside.

The Cinematic Challenges of Speed

While the decision to use real race cars is a triumph for authenticity, it posed immense challenges for the film’s production team—especially the cinematographers. Capturing the ferocity of a car traveling over 200 mph is no small feat. Here are a few of the hurdles they faced:

1. The Need for Specialized Equipment

Standard cameras can’t handle the speed, vibrations, and environmental conditions of a racetrack. The team employed ultra-high-speed cameras mounted on specially designed rigs to capture the action. These rigs were often attached to high-performance vehicles or drones to keep up with the cars on track. The goal? To make viewers feel like they’re sitting in the cockpit, experiencing every hairpin turn and tire squeal.

2. Balancing Safety with Creativity

Filming on live racetracks meant ensuring the safety of both the cast and crew. With cars zipping by at breakneck speeds, the team had to choreograph each shot meticulously. Every sequence was pre-planned and rehearsed with professional drivers to avoid mishaps. Yet, despite these precautions, the unpredictability of motorsport always loomed large.

3. Lighting on Dynamic Tracks

Natural light plays a significant role in outdoor shoots, but racing tracks are notoriously unpredictable when it comes to weather. Overcast skies, sudden rain showers, and fluctuating light conditions required the cinematography team to adapt on the fly. Dynamic lighting setups and post-production color grading were essential to maintain visual consistency.

4. Conveying Speed Without Distortion

One of the biggest challenges in racing films is translating the sensation of speed to the screen. Traditional wide shots can sometimes diminish the perceived velocity of cars. To counter this, the cinematographers employed low-angle shots, extreme close-ups, and creative use of slow-motion to highlight the raw power and danger of the races.

Why This Approach Matters

In an era where CGI dominates blockbuster filmmaking, F1 serves as a reminder of the power of practical effects. By filming real cars on real tracks, the movie delivers a visceral experience that CGI simply can’t match. Every screech, every skid, and every collision carries weight because it’s happening in the real world. This authenticity doesn’t just appeal to motorsport fans—it elevates the storytelling, making the stakes feel higher and the drama more intense.

Brad Pitt and Damson Idris: A Winning Duo

Brad Pitt’s dedication to mastering the craft of racing is evident in every frame. Working alongside professional drivers and undergoing rigorous training, he brings a level of commitment that mirrors the intensity of his character. Damson Idris, known for his standout roles in Snowfall and Swarm, brings fresh energy to the film, matching Pitt’s charisma with his own brand of on-screen dynamism. Together, the two actors promise to deliver a performance that’s as compelling as the racing sequences themselves.

Final Thoughts

As someone who has spent the last year and a half designing and building film making gear, I am particularly pleased to see that even multi-million dollar productions are not (yet) created entirely in the virtual world. F1 isn’t just a film - it’s an event. By combining Brad Pitt and Damson Idris’s star power with groundbreaking cinematography and a commitment to authenticity, it’s poised to become one of the definitive racing movies of our time. For fans of motorsport and cinema alike, this is a film that demands to be experienced on the biggest screen possible.

Mark your calendars for 2025. F1 is set to roar into theaters, bringing the thrill of the track to life like never before. Will you be ready for the ride?