Everybody loves a good sports movie, especially as streamers feed the insatiable hunger binge watchers have for documentaries. With the likes of David Beckham and Usain Bolt pulling back the veils from their misunderstood lives, the cinema of fast-paced flicks is slowly taking over.
Coming into the fold is Joseph Kosinski’s F1, which follows his winning trajectory of fast-paced dramas. Starring Brad Pitt as the fictional Sonny Hayes, a former American Formula One driver on the verge of a career comeback late in life, the movie has captured audiences with its high-octane storyline. The film also features Javier Bardem as Sonny’s former teammate Ruben Cervantes, who pulls him back into Formula One racing to revive the fictional motor racing company, Apex.
While F1 has been a box office success, grossing $146 million in its first week, it faces criticism for its portrayal of supporting characters, particularly Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. Joshua’s character is depicted as a talented but struggling racer, facing pressure to save Apex GP from a troubled reputation. The dynamic between Joshua and Sonny creates tension as they compete for success in the racing world.
However, the portrayal of Joshua’s character raises concerns about racial stereotypes and lack of depth in the storyline.
Joshua’s experiences in F1 echo studies into black fatigue and code switching, reflecting the challenges faced by black professionals in predominantly white workplaces.
As the only person of color in the Apex GP team, Joshua grapples with corporate pressure and discrimination, leading him to seek external deals to secure his place in the team.
The movie also highlights the contrast between Joshua’s modern approach to racing, utilizing technology and social media, and Sonny’s more traditional, detached demeanor. This conflict between past and future is further emphasized through the supporting cast, who fall into tired tropes and stereotypes.
Kerry Condon’s character, a scientist who becomes Joshua’s love interest, is criticized for being underdeveloped and conforming to clichés rather than breaking barriers. The film’s attempt to navigate themes of redemption and nostalgia falls short, as it struggles to provide meaningful depth to its characters and storyline.
In its exploration of the complexities of the racing world, F1 inadvertently shines a light on broader issues of representation, diversity, and the challenges faced by minorities in competitive industries. The movie serves as a reminder of the importance of nuanced storytelling and authentic character development in portraying diverse experiences on screen.
