Mon Apr 28 02:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Hollywood Meets High Octane: Damson Idris on Filming F1 Blockbuster

**London, UK** – Actor Damson Idris, star of the upcoming Formula 1 movie, has revealed the exhilarating experience of filming alongside Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Brad Pitt at the 2023 British Grand Prix. The $300 million film, simply titled *F1*, plunges viewers into the heart of the racing world with unprecedented access and realism.

Idris, who plays rookie racer Joshua Pearce, described the intensity of filming a pivotal scene on the grid just minutes before the race start. Surrounded by real F1 mechanics and cars, with Verstappen to his right and Pitt (playing his on-screen teammate) to his left, Idris had to quickly transition from awestruck spectator to fully embodied character. He recounts the pressure of a single-take scene, set against the backdrop of the British national anthem and the roar of the Red Arrows.

The film, directed by Joseph Kosinski (*Top Gun: Maverick*), eschews green screen, featuring real racing cars driven at genuine speeds. Idris and Pitt drove modified F2 cars, trained extensively by Hamilton and professional drivers, including 2012 Formula 2 champion Luciano Bacheta and Craig Dolby. Idris even recounts a thrilling (and unscripted) spin during training in Austin, Texas.

While tight-lipped about plot details, Idris draws parallels between his character and current F1 drivers like Oscar Piastri, highlighting the rookie’s struggle to prove himself. He also credits Pitt’s mentorship and humility on set, calling the experience “amazing” and a testament to dedication and focus.

The film promises numerous cameos from current F1 drivers, and Idris eagerly awaits their reactions after early screenings at the Canadian Grand Prix. His own racing aspirations have been ignited by the experience, expressing a desire to compete in future charity races with fellow actor-racers and even some F1 drivers. *F1* is set for release in June.

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