William Gallagher
Apple is said to be finalizing a deal for Apple TV+ to acquire a film starring Brad Pitt as a retired Formula 1 driver who mentors a younger racer.
In what would be Apple's second movie deal featuring Brad Pitt, the company is said to be in the last negotiations to buy the as yet untitled Formula 1 film. Reportedly, there are now no other streaming or distribution companies in the running.
According to Deadline, the project has seen a highly competitive race for the project. Unlike "CODA," which was bought after it was completed, Apple TV+ has been bidding on the pitch to make this new movie.
Reportedly, it's being written by Ehren Kruger, whose previous work ranges from "Arlington Road,", through "Dumbo" and three "Transformers" movies, to "Top Gun: Maverick." It's to be directed by Joseph Kosinksi and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, both of whom also worked on "Top Gun: Maverick."
Deadline says that the Formula 1 racing organization is not officially involved as yet, but British racing driver Lewis Hamilton is in some capacity.
The plot concerns Pitt playing a retired racer who returns to the sport to mentor a new driver. No details of who Pitt's co-star will be have been released.
As well as the second movie deal with Pitt, this marks yet another move by Apple TV+ to feature sport in its catalog. While it's continually rumored that Apple is trying to add live sports to Apple TV+, it has also been working to include sports documentaries, and sports television dramas. Plus, of course, it already has the hit sports comedy, "Ted Lasso."
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
Malcolm Owen
1 Comment
Just in time for extreme controversy over F1. FIA during this last season revealed how their races are largely fixed by made up on the spot calls and 'rules.' During the final race of the season they blatantly robbed (on camera) Hamilton's win costing him the championship.