The Real-Life Inspirations Behind the High-Octane Crashes in F1
F1 is a film that captures the essence of speed and adrenaline, with its stars behind the wheel and cinematography that offers an unprecedented view of racing on the big screen. The movie delivers heart-pounding sequences that are as much about the thrill of velocity as they are about the spectacle of crashes. While crash scenes are a staple in racing films, what might not be widely known is that the accidents in F1 were inspired by real-life events.
In a recent episode of the podcast The Big Picture, director Joseph Kosinski discussed the making of the film. He revealed that the crash scenes were based on actual incidents, adding a layer of authenticity to the storytelling. One particular flashback sequence, which marks a turning point in the career of Sonny Hayes, was inspired by the life of a consultant involved in the production. Kosinski explained:
“All the accidents in the film are based on real-life accidents or combining pieces of different ones. There’s one in the 1990s that’s very much based on a real accident and a real person, an ex-Formula 1 driver, who was a consultant on our film and involved and graciously allowed us to use his life experience and allowed us to modify it to be part of Sonny’s backstory. So that was really kind of a blend of period footage, where we digitally altered it and footage that we shot ourselves kind of blended together along with some new technology.”
This approach not only adds realism but also creates a deeper connection between the film and the history of motorsport. The process of blending real footage with new technology was a complex task, though it pales in comparison to the meticulous attention to detail required for other aspects of the film, such as ensuring Brad Pitt’s hairstyle matched the era being depicted.
The Monza Crash: A Perfect Blend of Planning and Spontaneity
One of the most intense crash sequences in F1 takes place at the Monza Circuit, where Damon Idris’ character, Joshua, hits a curb and explodes during a race. This scene was entirely produced by the film’s team, and while the shoot didn’t go exactly as planned, the result ended up being even more impactful than anticipated. Kosinski shared:
“Then there’s a crash in Monza, which we shot fully practically, which was also based on a Formula 3 accident from a few years ago in the same corner, which was intense. There’s a whole making of that on the home video release, which people can watch, it’ll be interesting. But that one did not go as planned and ended up being kind of better than I could’ve anticipated for that reason, and that’s why I love live-action filmmaking.”
This moment highlights the unpredictable nature of live-action filming and how unexpected outcomes can lead to some of the most memorable scenes.
Safety and Stakes in Modern Racing Films
Beyond the visual spectacle, crash sequences in racing movies serve a crucial narrative purpose: to highlight the dangers faced by drivers. In the making of F1, Kosinski found another dimension to these scenes. While the risks are still present, modern vehicle design has significantly improved safety compared to decades ago. The director noted:
“That one also involves fire, which was intense and also based on a real life Formula 1 crash from a few years ago, which, I think, reminds people of how dangerous this sport is but also how safe it is, because the safety measures built into these cars and the suits that they wear have come a long way in the last 20 or 30 years that people or walking away or surviving crashes that they wouldn’t have before.”
This balance between danger and safety underscores the evolution of motorsport and the advancements that have made it more secure for drivers.
A Must-Watch Experience
The crash sequences in F1 are expertly crafted, contributing to the film’s overall impact. They are one of the key reasons the movie demands to be seen on the big screen. Alongside Brad Pitt and Damon Idris, the film features Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, and Javier Bardem. F1 is now playing in theaters everywhere, having secured a strong position at the box office, finishing second to Jurassic World: Rebirth over the Independence Day holiday weekend.
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or simply looking for an exhilarating cinematic experience, F1 offers a compelling blend of storytelling, visuals, and real-world inspiration.
