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What's On
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
F1 movie review: Big names, big engines – but does the story keep pace?
I'm a relatively new F1 fan – and no, it didn't start with Drive to Survive, and I didn't fall for Charles Leclerc's jawline. My fandom began with research, old race replays, and a crash course in everything from understeer to the total number of people in the pit crew and their jobs. Why? For work. I was covering the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix for What's On and wanted to understand the basics: from drivers and teams to formation laps and tire strategies. Movie still from F1 | Credit: moviestillsdb Long story short: I got hooked. Now? No plans on race weekends, errands done before all sessions, and eyes glued to every lap. I'm a Max Verstappen fan (yes, really), but also a proud Tifosi. And lately, Lando Norris is quietly creeping into my top tier. (We can debate the politics of that fandom triangle later.) Honestly, I didn't even know about the F1 movie until a few months ago. But when I heard it was three years in the making, co-produced by Lewis Hamilton – a seven (okay, eight…) time world champion – I was sold. So, is this really Formula 1… or just Fast & Furious with carbon fibre? Movie still from F1 | Credit: moviestillsdb The first red flag, however, came early. At a special screening for drivers in New York, Carlos Sainz (now driving for Williams) said: 'I'll just say – for the pure F1 fan, be open-minded to Hollywood F1 films…' Uh oh. With Sainz's words echoing in my head, I found myself in front of the big screen. Open-minded, Aarti… open-minded, I reminded myself. The lights went out pretty quickly, and I was hooked from the starting line. Movie still from F1 | Credit: moviestillsdb We meet Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), a former F1 driver sidelined by a devastating crash. These days, he's bouncing between odd racing gigs, but when a struggling F1 team offers him a wildcard comeback, he hesitates – then agrees, one last shot at glory. It's a simple story — far easier to follow than the layered drama I had to untangle while learning the motorsport, and very Hollywood. But that's good news for non-F1 fans, because it's straightforward and easy to digest. There are certain things I could push past – his age on his return to the grid (likely older than Alonso, and that's saying something), for one. But also the, erm, multiple infringements during the race that would've had the FIA making it rain – not with prize money, but with penalty points. Above: Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025 And one continuity gripe that stood out: these cars were apparently running on rocket fuel, because they kept reaching the hairpin (Turn 5 at Yas Marina) in under 15 seconds – repeatedly. While F1 clearly belongs in the 'action' genre, I found myself craving more on-track drama. *Your ultimate guide to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2025* But maybe that's just the adrenaline junkie in me. That said, the realism of the racing scenes – shot using groundbreaking technology – definitely gripped me. The speed, the sound, the adrenaline… it was all captured so perfectly, it genuinely felt like I was watching a real race. So real, in fact, that my eyes kept flicking left, instinctively searching for the timing tower. And Hayes' POV behind the wheel really puts you right in the action. I can't not mention the score. Hans Zimmer delivers, as expected – but it felt underused. As a fan of his epic, soul-stirring compositions, I kept waiting (and wanting) for that goosebump-inducing moment. What's On verdict Movie still from F1 | Credit: moviestillsdb This film gripped my attention like a set of perfectly warmed Pirelli softs – not the C6s though, because if you're keeping up with, as Leclerc states on Drive To Survive 'the Kardashians of Formula 1', you'll know those didn't exactly win fans. It's not without faults, but it's high-octane, well-acted, and, for the most part, respectful to the sport. And whether you're in it for the data, the drama, or the drivers, it's worth a trip to the grid. Book your seats to see the movie here. Images: Getty Images and
What's On
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Join What's On for a fun party brunch at Ma Buckley's in Abu Dhabi
If you have plans already in place for June 28, you may want to cancel them. Why? Because something more exciting has just come up. We have teamed up with Ma Buckley's Bar & Restaurant to celebrate one of the UAE's most popular weekend traditions: a party brunch. What's On Brunch is a deliciously curated new series that will see us taking over the capital's tastiest spots, and of course, you are top on our guest list. We will be kicking things off on Saturday, June 28, from 1pm to 5pm at Ma Buckley's Bar & Restaurant at Souk Qaryat Al Beri. Haven't visited the spot before? Think of it as an Irish soul with a cosmopolitan twist. If you choose to join us, your afternoon will be filled with raucous laughter and that unmistakable hum of a place where the craic is always mighty. Need some more convincing? Allow us to share the details with you… What's On the menu? Plenty of lip-smacking bites and mains. You will start with a delicious dynamite shrimp, basil and mozzarella arancini, or an old-school chicken satay or mushroom vol-au-vents. Once you're warmed up, it's time to saddle up for the main event. There are crispy fries, juicy meats, peppers, onions, and McDonnell's Curry Sauce – the unofficial sauce of Irish glory. If you can't take the spice, there's the juicy smash burger, Buffalo chicken wrap, hearty fish 'n' chips, Asian beef salad, or loaded stir-fries. We're letting you know in advance… save space for dessert. There's lotus berry cheesecake, classic apple pie, and a perfectly torched crème brûlée. Yum! And what about drinks? You can't have a brunch with just food, so expect bottomless pours at this epic What's On Brunch. Expect all your favourites from draughts to wines, spirits and more – the team at Ma Buckley's will keep your glass filled and your spirits high. Prefer cocktails? You can add signature cocktails to the mix for just Dhs50. The vibe? You'll find nothing but cool, lighthearted, fun vibes here. As the backdrop of your afternoon, we have the tunes from not one, but two top-tier troubadours: Dermot Taggart and Dale O'Hanlon, both armed with guitars, silky Irish vocals, and more charm than a pot of gold at the end of a very tipsy rainbow. Sold? Can't wait to join us? We have more good news. The usual price for this brunch is just Dhs199 for three hours. However, as a special deal just for What's On readers, it's Dhs129 for four hours. That's right, for the food, drinks, and great vibes, your total bill will just be Dhs129 per person for this fun lunch. What are you waiting for? Get this in the group chat quick to confirm the plan with friends and get to booking quick, as there are limited spots. You can make your bookings here. For more information, visit 02 642 8600 or follow @ma_buckleys > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
The Mary J. Blige concert in Dubai has been cancelled
Just as excitement was building for Mary J. Blige's first Dubai show in over a decade, we got the news no one wanted to hear: the concert , meant to take place on Tuesday, June 24 has been cancelled. While the reasons have not been shared, What's On can confirm that the concert will not be taking place. Although the listing has been removed from the Coca Cola Arena's events calendar, we are hopeful that the star will be able to perform here soon. Mary J. Blige's return to the UAE stage was meant to be a milestone. Her last full concert in Dubai was more than ten years ago, and anticipation was high after her recent cameo at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and appearances around the city. The show, scheduled for next week at the Coca-Cola Arena, promised a special night filled with her timeless hits to remind everyone why she's still the queen. About Mary J. Blige Few artists have shaped hip-hop and R&B quite like Mary J. Blige. Since the early '90s, she's been mixing raw emotion with street edge, creating songs that still hit decades later. Think Family Affair , No More Drama , Real Love , Be Without You – the list goes on. With 14 albums, over 100 million records sold, nine Grammys, and an Oscar nod, her legacy speaks for itself. In 2022, Billboard crowned her an icon. Simply put: she's a legend. The venue Presented by Live Nation Middle East, the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai was set to host one of the city's biggest music events of the year. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities and atmosphere, it was the perfect place for Mary J. Blige's comeback concert – a venue that matches the energy and scale of a superstar like her. Though this concert won't be happening next week, we can hold on to hope that Mary J. Blige's return to Dubai isn't over – just paused. And if you're planning your concert calendar, the UAE is stacked: Wael Kfoury at Dubai Opera on June 22, Jennifer Lopez at Etihad Arena on July 29, Lil Baby on October 18, Elissa at Dubai Opera on November 3, Enrique Iglesias in November, and Katy Perry closing the year in December. > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Afternoon tea with What's On: get an exclusive preview at Majlis by Pierre Hermé
What's On is teaming up with one of Abu Dhabi's most elegant destinations for an indulgent afternoon unlike any other. On Wednesday, June 18, 10 lucky readers and their guests will get an exclusive first taste of the brand-new Afternoon Tea at Majlis by Pierre Hermé, inside the luxurious Rosewood Abu Dhabi. Since opening in late 2024, Majlis has quickly become a go-to for stylish sips, decadent bites, and trendsetting takes on the afternoon tea tradition. And now, they're raising the bar. This specially curated four-course experience is inspired by the legendary career of world-renowned pastry chef Pierre Hermé, promising delicate flavours, bold technique, and a masterclass in presentation. Here's what's on the menu: A refined amuse-bouche to start Artisanal sandwiches inspired by classic English flavours A refreshing palate cleanser And the pièce de résistance: a show-stopping stand of Pierre Hermé's signature pastries Pair it all with rare and elegant brews, including Geisha coffee and a bespoke selection of Avantcha teas, handpicked to elevate the experience. Usually priced from Dhs345, this preview is exclusively available to selected What's On readers and whoever they choose to enjoy this experience with. Guests will enjoy full table service during a two-hour seating window and won't be available to anyone else – just our – VIP What's On guests. Ready to indulge? RSVP here. > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Here's how the first Abu Dhabi Lock In of 2025 went down
Our guests turned up in force… Over the weekend of May 24 and 25, What's On hosted Abu Dhabi's exciting, sold out most weekend summer celebration at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel, over a full 28 hours. 3 of 12 Our wonderful guests turned up in droves and experienced a fun-soaked weekend like none other, with a superstar staycation, bottomless brunch, wellness treatments and watersports with Laluna (@ as they created lifelong memories with friends and family right here in the UAE capital. Highlight reel In a sentence, this was a weekend party to remember at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi. Our guests enjoyed a range of free activities and discounted access to an array of hotel and partner experiences, both thrilling and relaxing – including head and shoulder massages, blow-dries and manis for the ladies and beard trims for the gents from the master stylists at Cayenne Beauty Salon (@cayennebeautysalon), as well as other glow-up treatments that had them looking their best all weekend long. To ensure our guests also dressed in their stylish best, Serge de Nimes, also our esteemed event partners (@serge_de_nimes_dxb) were in attendance with a wide variety of fashionable outfits on display. After a morning of meeting our team and each other, our guests moved to Belgian Café for a full four hours of brunch madness, where hearty European delights, free-flowing drinks and great entertainment laid the table. Wondering what was on the menu? It really was the whole nine yards of some of the best Belgian food and drink in town, with leading favourites such as Belgian mussels, steak frites, cheese platters, oysters, and beef stew only a few of the taste-packed delicacies on offer. Coupled with free-flowing pints of Belgian goodness and electrifying live entertainment, brunch time at our Lock In kept the weekend vibe at optimum levels. When it was time for the afterparty, the party train moved to the InterContinental Abu Dhabi's epic Chamas Churrascaria & Bar, where guests shook a leg and enjoyed the beats from the deck of a skilled DJ, as samba dancers brought the carnival vibes to the party. It was a peerless afternoon of food, drink, socialising and merrymaking where the good times rolled on all day (and weekend) long. At the end of an exhilarating Day 1, guests finally retired to their luxurious King Classic Sea View rooms to grab a good night's rest, with the most gorgeous vistas of Abu Dhabi keeping them company right outside their windows. On Sunday, breakfast was served at Selections restaurant, with buffet-style eats and relaxed vibes. The extensive selection of breakfast options was just what the doctor ordered after a full day of fun and entertainment, and guests refuelled for a day of R&R that included several fun and relaxing sessions including a gentle yoga flow session at Bayshore Beach Club with YogaOne(@yogaone_uae), followed by free workouts and watersports with Laluna (@ with guests making a splash by the UAE capital's skyline. If you couldn't get your hands on a reservation this time… Don't worry, this peerless weekend party was only the first of several… and we might have another big one in the works, so make sure you register here to receive all the updates first. If you'd like to book your own stay at InterContinental Abu Dhabi, call (0)2 666 6888, book here, or email > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
