The film’s success in IMAX theaters has been a key driver of its box office dominance. Shot with over a dozen IMAX-certified digital cameras designed to capture the blistering speed and precision of Formula 1 racing, the movie was crafted for the immersive big-screen experience. IMAX screenings accounted for 23% of the film’s North American opening weekend and 19% of its global debut, contributing $85 million to its worldwide gross. This performance makes it the highest-grossing Hollywood film in IMAX for 2025. The re-release aims to capitalize on this momentum, offering fans another chance to feel the rush of 180-mph racing sequences in the format’s exclusive 1.90:1 expanded aspect ratio and custom sound mix.
A Cultural and Cinematic Triumph
Beyond its financial achievements, “F1 The Movie” has sparked a cultural phenomenon. The film’s soundtrack, “F1 The Album,” featuring tracks like Tate McRae’s VMA-nominated “Just Keep Watching,” has sold over 600,000 copies worldwide and is nearing one billion global streams. Dominating Billboard’s Top Movie Songs chart, the album’s success mirrors the film’s ability to resonate with audiences far beyond the racetrack. The movie’s A CinemaScore and 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes reflect its broad appeal, blending heart-pounding action with a redemption-driven narrative. Directed by Joseph Kosinski of “Top Gun: Maverick” fame and produced by a team including Jerry Bruckheimer and Lewis Hamilton, the film has been hailed as the most authentic racing feature ever made.
Strategic Move for Apple
Apple’s decision to bring “F1 The Movie” back to IMAX theaters reflects a savvy blend of fan service and business strategy. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, the film’s initial $140 million budget has been offset by its massive box office haul and sponsorships from brands like IWC Schaffhausen and Tommy Hilfiger, which contributed at least $40 million. The re-release is poised to further boost revenue, especially in international markets like China and Korea, where the film has performed strongly. As Apple continues to expand its footprint in theatrical releases, this move highlights a shift toward hybrid models that balance cinema runs with future streaming availability on Apple TV+.
Why It Matters for Viewers
For tech users and moviegoers, the IMAX re-release offers a rare opportunity to experience a film designed for maximum sensory impact. The custom cameras, some built with iPhone components, captured high-speed footage that immerses audiences in the driver’s seat. The film’s narrative, centered on Brad Pitt’s character—a 1990s F1 driver seeking redemption after a near-career-ending accident—adds emotional depth to the visceral thrills. With tickets already selling out in select markets, the re-release taps into the growing popularity of Formula 1, particularly among younger and more diverse audiences, as half of U.S. fans have started following the sport in the last five years.
Looking Ahead
The success of “F1 The Movie” signals a new era for Apple Original Films, which has already lined up high-profile projects like “Highest 2 Lowest” and “The Lost Bus.” The film’s IMAX encore could pave the way for a potential sequel, with industry buzz already circulating. For now, fans can secure tickets through standard theatrical channels to catch the movie’s heart-racing action before it eventually hits Apple TV+. As the summer movie season winds down, “F1 The Movie” remains a testament to the enduring power of big-screen storytelling.
