Starring Brad Pitt and co-directed by Lewis Hamilton, the upcoming Formula 1 movie has captivated the imagination of the F1 community. With an unconfirmed title as of now, the movie is a joint project by Apple Studios, Plan B Entertainment, and Jerry Bruckheimer Films. The movie promises a gripping story of the fictional racing team APXGP and its drivers, portrayed by Brad Pitt and Damson Idris. We saw a glimpse of the production at the 2023 British Grand Prix as Pitt and Idris were seen in their racing suits in the paddock. And recently, Brad Pitt was spotted at Daytona for the film’s shooting during the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona.
Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the film aims to capture the authenticity of real Formula 1 experience. As far as we know, Brad Pitt is taking on the role of “Sonny Hayes,” a former F1 driver from the 1990s who, after a devastating crash, finds himself racing in other disciplines. And that’s where the shooting at Daytona comes into the picture.
BRAD PITT – filming for @AppleTV #Apex from @RedBullUK #PolePosition @SilverstoneUK #F12023 #F1 #SilverstoneGP #Silverstone #BradPitt pic.twitter.com/rMVb20DrhV
— kirsty malcolm (@kirstymalcolm) July 9, 2023
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Brad Pitt was seen behind the wheel of a Porche 911GT3
The filming, being prepped for several weeks at Daytona Beach, came to life during the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona with the fictional team “Chip Hart Racing.” Wright Motorsports, in collaboration with the movie, showcased the film’s branding on everything, from driver suits to their cars, adding to the realism. Speaking of realism, professional drivers Adam Adelson, Elliott Skeer, Jan Heylen, and Fred Makowiecki will take control of Brad Pitt’s No. 120 Porsche 911 GT3 during the Rolex 24.
While Brad Pitt didn’t drive in the actual race in Daytona for obvious reasons, he was said to have been behind the wheel of the #120 Porsche 911 GT3 a few times during the filming sessions. According to F1 Insider, producer Jerry Bruckheimer commented on Pitt saying, “He’s an incredible athlete, the drivers are impressed with how good he is.“
Brad Pitt filming 'Apex' movie in Daytona 📽 pic.twitter.com/ykUrRv7WaO
— Brad Pitt Updates (@pittstoppp) January 30, 2024
The nighttime shoots, after the track is cleared of Rolex 24 practices, involved at least six cars on the track simultaneously. Among them, three identical Porsche 911 GT3s mirrored the movie car. Prepared by Wright Motorsports, all of them share the same design and they will compete as it is in the upcoming Daytona event. Speaking highly of Jerry Bruckheimer, Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher said, “Jerry Bruckheimer has produced some of the most entertaining and action-packed movies and shows of the past several decades. Whether he featured fast cars, high-flying jets, or frantic foot races, his work reflects the energy we’ll see in the Rolex 24 At Daytona.”
READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton Reveals Hollywood Inspiration Behind Naming His Cars Like Sebastian Vettel
However, not everyone involved in the event was impressed by Brad Pitt’s presence as it caused inconvenience for several drivers.
Brad Pitt’s participation at Daytona causes a stir among the drivers
Many drivers found themselves dealing with increased security measures at the driver’s motorhome due to the presence of Brad Pitt. Scott McLaughlin, an IndyCar driver, faced an unusual entry rejection for not having his credential, even though he was in uniform straight from the racecar. NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace and other top drivers also had to adjust to an overflow lot due to the increased security.
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#IMSA – There is a #911GT3R that hits @DAYTONA but doesn't appear in the @IMSA #Daytona24 entry list. Porsche customer @WrightRac1ng fields the #120 "Chip Hart Racing" car which will be included in the upcoming motion picture starring Brad Pitt, an anticipated @F1 racing feature pic.twitter.com/Oal4fLLwB2
— Porsche Motorsport (@PorscheRaces) January 24, 2024
Former F1 driver, Jenson Button and IndyCar driver Colton Herta also complained of being denied adequate rest during the night, as that’s when the filming sessions were planned after the conclusion of the Rolex 24 practice sessions. Despite the disruptions, Button maintained a positive outlook emphasizing the excitement surrounding the event, with Brad Pitt playing a significant role.
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