High-Octane Triumph: F1 The Movie Becomes Brad Pitt's New Box Office Powerhouse and Apple Studios First Mega Hit

Time Business News

08-07-2025

F1 The Movie roared into theaters on June 27, 2025, opening to an impressive $55.6 million at the domestic box office. This debut not only marked the biggest opening ever for Apple Studios but also positioned the film as one of the top theatrical launches of the year. Within its first weekend alone, the film generated $144 million globally, according to verified box office trackers, proving its widespread international appeal. With over $200 million grossed worldwide as of early July, the film's trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. This performance makes it Apple's most successful theatrical release to date and a breakout success in Brad Pitt's storied film career.
Backed by a Bold Investment, F1 The Movie Is Apple's Most Expensive Production Yet with a Budget Over $200 Million
The production cost for F1 The Movie was ambitious—estimated between $200 and $300 million. This massive investment reflects Apple's commitment to creating top-tier cinematic content. Unlike traditional studios that heavily depend on ticket sales, Apple uses the theatrical window as a branding tool. Theatrical buzz fuels streaming anticipation for Apple TV+, helping to position the platform as a prestige destination for original films. While the box office alone may not cover production costs, Apple's model places long-term value in ecosystem engagement and critical recognition. The strategy is paying off, as F1 The Movie has become a centerpiece of their 2025 slate.
With $109 million and rising in the U.S., F1 The Movie has already outgrossed more than 35 other Brad Pitt films. This includes major titles such as Moneyball, Se7en, Interview with the Vampire, and Fury. The film now ranks as Pitt's 12th highest-grossing domestic release. It is on track to surpass Inglourious Basterds ($120.8M), Ocean's Twelve ($125.5M), and potentially Troy ($133.3M) in the coming weeks. Breaking into Pitt's top five would require surpassing Megamind at $148.4M—a challenging but not impossible goal if strong box office legs hold. The film's performance has reignited appreciation for Pitt's broad appeal as both a dramatic and action-focused lead actor.
Although F1 The Movie has maintained steady earnings, the arrival of other tentpole films could challenge its longevity in cinemas. The next few weeks will see the release of major studio projects including Jurassic World: Rebirth, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, and the highly anticipated new Superman reboot. These films will compete for premium screens and audience attention. Analysts project a typical second-weekend drop of around 55%, which F1 is already experiencing. However, even with these dips, industry experts believe the film could earn another $11 million domestically by mid-July. That would likely secure its place in Pitt's top ten U.S. box office rankings.
Apple's decision to invest in a large-scale theatrical rollout has been validated by F1 The Movie's strong performance. Unlike past Apple Originals which received limited runs, F1 was released across premium formats including IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and PLF screens. IMAX alone accounted for $28 million globally, about 20% of its total opening weekend haul. Apple has been transparent about using theaters primarily as marketing platforms to build momentum ahead of their streaming launches. The movie's theatrical success gives Apple an enormous brand lift and sets a benchmark for future Apple Original Films, especially those with wide appeal and high production value.
Fans and critics alike have begun speculating about a sequel to F1 The Movie. Director Joseph Kosinski has hinted at potential follow-up storylines and even teased a fun crossover with Tom Cruise's Days of Thunder character, Cole Trickle. Meanwhile, Brad Pitt and co-stars have expressed enthusiasm about returning to their roles. However, Formula 1 champion and executive producer Lewis Hamilton has cautioned against rushing a sequel. He emphasized the need for thoughtful planning, noting that the original took four years to develop. The team remains open to continuing the story but is committed to maintaining the high standards set by the first film.
Part of F1 The Movie's widespread appeal lies in its authentic portrayal of Formula 1 racing. Shot on real tracks with actual F1 teams, the film seamlessly combines real-world racing dynamics with cinematic storytelling. This has resonated with longtime motorsport fans and newcomers alike. As Formula 1 continues to grow in global popularity—thanks in part to Netflix's Drive to Survive—the film taps into a booming market. Its cross-generational star power, stunning visuals, and compelling character arcs make it ripe for expansion. A potential franchise could mirror the longevity of sports film series like Creed or Fast & Furious, but with a more grounded, realistic tone.
F1 The Movie is not just another summer box office success—it's a defining moment for both Apple Studios and Brad Pitt. With a record-breaking debut, global earnings beyond $200 million, and enthusiastic reception, the movie shows that high-quality, sports-based dramas still have strong market potential. It's also proof that Apple can play in the same league as major Hollywood studios when it comes to cinematic storytelling. Whether or not it cracks Pitt's top five, F1 The Movie has already secured its place as one of 2025's standout releases—and it may be just the beginning of a high-speed franchise.
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TIME BUSINESS NEWS