Why Non-F1 Fans Are Falling in Love With the “F1” Movie

The long-awaited F1 movie has finally raced into theaters, and the reception has been nothing short of spectacular. With a 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and an 86% critics’ rating, it’s clear the film is a hit. But the most surprising reaction isn’t coming from die-hard motorsport fans—it’s from general audiences who knew nothing about Formula 1 before walking into the cinema.
A Movie That Thrills Beyond the Track
While hardcore F1 enthusiasts might nitpick details, casual viewers and newcomers are being blown away by the sheer cinematic spectacle. The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw, a self-proclaimed “non-fan,” gave the film four out of five stars, praising its “surreal and spectacular” presentation.
The consensus? The plot may be predictable, but the groundbreaking visuals, thunderous sound design, and immersive racing sequences more than make up for it.
Why Non-Fans Are the Biggest Fans
- Unmatched Cinematic Experience – Shot with prototype cameras developed with Sony and Apple, the film puts audiences inside the cockpit like never before. From the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas to the high-speed curves of Japan, every race feels visceral and real.
- A Soundtrack That Roars – The film’s audio engineering is being hailed as one of the best in recent memory, with engines that rumble through seats and a score that elevates every heart-pounding moment.
- Human Drama That Connects – Even without deep F1 knowledge, viewers are hooked by the rivalries, teamwork, and high-stakes tension both on and off the track.
Time Out’s Philip De Semlyen put it perfectly:
The Verdict: See It in IMAX
If you’re on the fence about F1, the message from non-fans is clear: Go see it—preferably in IMAX. As critic Ki Hughes noted, even pit stops become “exhilarating ballets” when captured with this level of technical brilliance.
So, whether you’re a lifelong F1 devotee or someone who couldn’t tell a Ferrari from a McLaren, this movie delivers pure, adrenaline-fueled entertainment. And who knows? You might just leave the theater a newfound racing fan.