"F1" Roars into Theaters with $144 Million Worldwide Debut, But Can It Outpace its Staggering $200M+ Budget?

The highly anticipated Formula 1 film, "F1," starring Brad Pitt and directed by Joseph Kosinski ("Top Gun: Maverick"), has hit the ground running at the global box office, pulling in an impressive $144 million in its opening weekend. This strong debut marks Apple's biggest big-screen hit to date and a career-high opening for lead actor Brad Pitt. However, with a reported production budget exceeding $200 million, the film faces a challenging race to profitability.

The movie, which immerses audiences in the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing, debuted with $55.6 million in North American theaters and a substantial $88.4 million from international markets, where the sport enjoys immense popularity. The strong overseas performance was largely anticipated, given F1's global fanbase.

"F1" boasts a star-studded cast including Brad Pitt as a veteran driver returning to the sport, alongside Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, and Javier Bardem. Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton also serves as a producer, lending authenticity to the high-octane racing sequences. The filmmakers, known for their work on "Top Gun: Maverick," utilized cutting-edge technology, including IMAX cameras placed inside actual cockpits, to deliver an immersive cinematic experience. IMAX and large-format screens accounted for a significant 55% of the film's ticket sales, highlighting the appeal of seeing the racing drama on the biggest possible screen.

While the $144 million global opening is a promising start, the film's substantial budget, estimated to be over $200 million (with some reports suggesting it could be as high as $300 million), means "F1" still has considerable ground to cover to break even and turn a profit. Industry analysts are closely watching to see if the film can maintain its momentum and capitalize on positive word-of-mouth.

For Apple, partnering with Warner Bros. for theatrical distribution, "F1" represents a significant step into the summer blockbuster arena. The film's successful debut demonstrates the prestige and brand elevation that a major theatrical release can offer the tech giant.

Photo Credit : Brad Pitt (left) and Damson Idris on the set of 'F1.' Dan Mullan/Getty Images