Brad Pitt’s ‘F1 The Movie’ Dominates Korean Box Office for Third Consecutive Day: What’s Fueling the Global Hype?

Brad Pitt’s ‘F1 The Movie’: A Global Cinematic Event

Did you know that Brad Pitt has returned to the big screen with a roar, starring in ‘F1 The Movie’? Since its release on June 25, 2025, the film has not only dominated the South Korean box office but has also become a global phenomenon. The movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, features Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a veteran driver making a high-stakes comeback with a struggling team. With real F1 teams and drivers making appearances and Lewis Hamilton as a producer, the film’s authenticity is a major talking point among fans and critics alike.
From the first day, Korean audiences flocked to theaters, with over 65,000 tickets sold on a single day and a cumulative total surpassing 200,000 within three days. The excitement is palpable, and the buzz is only growing as the film continues to top charts worldwide.

Box Office Triumph: Korea and Beyond

‘F1 The Movie’ didn’t just race to the top in Korea. Globally, the film has shattered expectations, grossing over $293 million worldwide in its opening weeks. In Korea, it captured nearly 38% of the market share during its debut weekend, outpacing both local and international competitors. The film’s opening weekend saw more than 347,000 admissions, and it quickly surpassed the 480,000 mark, according to the Korean Film Council. Audience ratings are sky-high, with a 98% CGV Golden Egg Index and 9.6/10 on Lotte Cinema.
This box office dominance is mirrored in other territories, with the film breaking records for Apple Studios and setting new standards for sports dramas. The IMAX release, in particular, has been a major draw, with viewers praising the immersive sound and visuals that put them right in the middle of the action.

The Story: Redemption, Rivalry, and Realism

At its heart, ‘F1 The Movie’ is more than just a racing film. It’s a story of redemption and mentorship, as Pitt’s Sonny Hayes joins the underdog APXGP team and partners with rookie sensation Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. The narrative weaves together high-speed drama, personal stakes, and the intense world of Formula 1. The film’s plot strikes a balance between appealing to hardcore motorsport fans and newcomers, offering enough technical detail for the initiated while remaining accessible and emotionally engaging.
Director Joseph Kosinski, known for ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’ brings his signature kinetic style, delivering racing sequences that are both visually spectacular and emotionally charged. The involvement of real F1 figures, including Lewis Hamilton, adds a layer of credibility and excitement for fans worldwide.

Critical and Audience Reactions: Polarizing Yet Powerful

The response to ‘F1 The Movie’ has been overwhelmingly positive, though not without debate. Critics have lauded the film’s visuals, sound design, and Brad Pitt’s magnetic performance. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film boasts an 83% approval rating from critics and an even higher audience score, with thousands of viewers giving it a near-perfect 4.7 out of 5. Metacritic echoes this sentiment with a ‘generally favorable’ score.
However, some hardcore F1 fans have pointed out inaccuracies in racing strategy and pit stop portrayals, sparking lively discussions online. Despite this, the consensus is clear: the film delivers a thrilling cinematic experience, especially for those experiencing F1 on the big screen for the first time. IMAX screenings, in particular, are being hailed as must-see events for their immersive quality.

Cultural Context: Why Korean Audiences Love ‘F1 The Movie’

Why has ‘F1 The Movie’ resonated so strongly with Korean audiences? Motorsport has been gaining traction in Korea, with growing interest in international racing and the glamour of Formula 1. The film’s blend of Hollywood spectacle, real-world racing drama, and relatable underdog storylines taps into this cultural moment. Korean viewers are also drawn to the film’s star-studded cast and the global prestige of the F1 brand.
Social media and local blogs are abuzz with reviews and fan reactions, highlighting the film’s emotional impact and technical achievements. Many viewers praise the movie for making F1 accessible and exciting, even for those new to the sport. The film’s success is seen as a sign of Korea’s increasing appetite for international blockbusters that combine action, emotion, and authenticity.

Fandom and Community: Online Buzz and Local Reviews

If you check Naver and Tistory blogs, you’ll find a vibrant community of fans dissecting every aspect of ‘F1 The Movie.’ From detailed scene breakdowns to discussions about Brad Pitt’s performance and the film’s depiction of racing culture, the online conversation is lively and passionate. Many bloggers share their experiences watching the film in IMAX, emphasizing the adrenaline rush and emotional highs.
Korean fans are particularly proud of the film’s box office performance, seeing it as a testament to the country’s influence in global pop culture. There’s also a sense of camaraderie among fans, with many encouraging newcomers to experience the film in theaters for the full effect. The movie has sparked renewed interest in motorsport, with some viewers even expressing a desire to follow real F1 races after watching the film.

Behind the Scenes: Hollywood Meets F1 Authenticity

One of the film’s biggest selling points is its commitment to authenticity. The production team worked closely with the FIA and real F1 teams, filming at actual Grand Prix events and incorporating real drivers into the story. Lewis Hamilton’s role as a producer ensured that the racing sequences felt genuine, even as the film balanced Hollywood drama with sporting realism.
Director Joseph Kosinski’s approach was to make viewers feel as if they were in the cockpit, using innovative camera techniques and practical effects. The result is a movie that appeals to both die-hard F1 fans and general audiences, offering a unique blend of spectacle and substance. The collaboration between Hollywood and the motorsport world is being hailed as a new benchmark for sports films.

The Global Impact: Setting New Standards for Sports Films

‘F1 The Movie’ is not just a hit in Korea—it’s a global event. The film’s success is seen as a turning point for Apple Studios, marking its first major box office triumph and setting new standards for sports dramas. Industry insiders are already calling it the ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ of racing films, thanks to its blend of star power, technical innovation, and emotional storytelling.
The movie’s influence extends beyond the box office, sparking renewed interest in Formula 1 and motorsport culture worldwide. For many viewers, the film is an invitation to explore the world of racing, with Brad Pitt’s charismatic performance serving as the perfect entry point. As the summer blockbuster season heats up, ‘F1 The Movie’ is poised to remain in pole position both in Korea and around the globe.

Conclusion: Why ‘F1 The Movie’ Is a Must-See

So, should you watch ‘F1 The Movie’? If you’re a fan of high-speed drama, Hollywood storytelling, or just want to experience the thrill of Formula 1 on the big screen, this film is for you. Brad Pitt’s performance, the breathtaking visuals, and the authentic racing sequences make it a standout cinematic event of 2025. Korean audiences have embraced the film with enthusiasm, and the global response suggests it’s a must-see for movie lovers everywhere.
Whether you’re a seasoned F1 fan or a newcomer to the sport, ‘F1 The Movie’ promises an unforgettable ride. Don’t miss your chance to join the excitement—grab your tickets, buckle up, and get ready for the race of a lifetime!