Two years after the initial filming of ‘F1 The Movie’ at Silverstone, international media were invited to Montreal for the official preview of the film starring Brad Pitt. To be completely honest: it was a tough ordeal.
In a beautiful hall of Cinéma Banque Scotia in the heart of Montreal, guests were warmly welcomed on Thursday evening, complete with popcorn and soft drinks. It felt like a great start to a night out with colleagues. Before the start of the film, representatives of the media were kindly thanked by director Joseph Kosinksi and producer Jerry Bruckheimer for their cooperation during filming in the paddocks during various race weekends in the past months. You’re welcome, we say.
And then the film began. It must be said, ‘F1 The Movie’ contains beautiful racing footage. But the story is paper-thin, about a veteran (Pitt) who returns to Formula 1 after a long absence. F1 fans will probably find the film unbelievable, people who have nothing to do with Formula 1 will probably get stuck in scenes about tire compounds and racing strategies.
There is actually an official embargo on the content of the film until next Tuesday, but let’s just say that none of the visitors in the room were on the edge of their seats. On the contrary, even. The time difference with Europe was felt by most a day after arrival in Canada. It became a battle against sleep for many. My Belgian neighbor in the room closed his eyes halfway through the film. And to be honest, I didn’t make it to the end either. It may not say everything about the film, but it does say something.
By the way, according to speculation in the paddock, FIA chairman Mohammed Ben Sulayem had demanded that he be seen in the film before he gave his blessing and pledged all cooperation. I missed him on Thursday evening, but that could also be due to me…
