The film 'F1' will be released this year after two years of filming during Grand Prix weekends. With Lewis Hamilton as consultant, the film features the character of Brad Pitt who gets behind the wheel to help his young teammate, played by Damson Idris, who reaches the highest level of single-seater racing.
A fictional 11th team, APX GP, has been in the paddock over the past 18 months, and the film's lead actor revealed that six cars were built, four of which were fitted with engines. An electric-powered car has been built for pit stops, which could inspire real Formula 1 teams.
“We have four” Pitt told Sky Sports F1. “We have a fifth, just for visual appearance, and a sixth which is an electric car that we will use for pit stops.
“It's interesting. You know, teams are always pushing the cars in practice. They're talking about switching to an electric car for this kind of practice. It's really cool.”
This tactic from the film could be used by teams, which would avoid mechanics having to push the car without contact. And Brad Pitt is also pleased with the way in which the actors played the role of pilots in all circumstances.
“Joe Kosinski, our director, had one idea in mind, to put actors in the car, immerse us in the race weekends and make the most authentic racing film to date. And I think we got it done it, I dare say, I think we did it.”
The cameras in the film, and in particular an imposing camera on the Halo, however brought their share of challenges: “The 4K camera on the Halo is really tricky because it blocks the view around corners. So as you approach, you can see here you have a little bit and then a little bit.”
“When you see them at the bottom, you have a little inch through it. It's not very sharp. It's not very clear. Even Lewis looked and was like 'oh my God!'. We're rolling about 300kg heavier than an F2 car, so it's a bit bulkier, but I love it.”
