Brad Pitt’s F1 Film Production Put On Hold in Solidarity with SAG Strike

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Oscar-winning actor Brad Pitt puts a stop to his Formula One movie production in a gesture of support for striking actors and writers. The filming, which had been taking place across Europe, included recent scenes shot at the Hungarian Grand Prix in Budapest. Despite financial implications, Pitt delays the production to express his support, with future schedules pending on the settlement of the strike demands.

Renowned actor and Academy Award winner, Brad Pitt, has made a firm decision amid the ongoing double strikes that are severely impacting Hollywood. Pitt is expressing his solidarity with the striking writers and actors, and according to Deadline, he has personally advocated for a temporary halt in the production of his much-anticipated Formula One movie. As the producer of the project, Pitt’s decision was a response to the concerns voiced by the crew involved in the film’s production.

Until this point, the movie’s filming had been taking place across Europe. Just last weekend, scenes were filmed live at the Hungarian Grand Prix in Budapest, demonstrating the movie’s dedication to incorporating actual F1 racing elements. Although Pitt wasn’t present on the set and filming had proceeded with non-SAG actors, Pitt was still actively involved in the production from behind the scenes. However, he has now chosen to pause the project to stand with his striking peers. As per Sun UK, the project is expected to be on a hiatus for a minimum of two months, the report states: “Brad agreed to complete scheduled shoots but postponed upcoming production for the next two months. The Apex cast and crew have been filming in Budapest, Hungary, but Brad has demanded that future dates be postponed in solidarity with the strikers.”

The decision to delay the project has considerable financial implications, the report acknowledges. However, Pitt has listened to the worries of his colleagues and collaborators and is resolute in showing his support. The report further discloses that talks about when to resume production are ongoing, with a tentative plan to shoot specific scenes in Las Vegas in November. But, these plans depend on the striking actors and writers reaching a consensus on their demands with the production studios.

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing
Who Else Stars In Brad Pitt’s F1 Film?

The yet-to-be-named F1 project is helmed by the creative brilliance of director Joseph Kosinski, with hopes of the film being for car racing what Kosinski’s blockbuster hit, Top Gun: Maverick is for aviation. The plot centers around Sonny Hayes (portrayed by Pitt)–a former F1 driver who retired after a tragic accident threatened his career. Hayes is recalled to the track for one last chance at glory and, more importantly, to assist the new F1 prodigy, Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris) to win big. Other cast members include Dune star Javier Bardem, Irish actress Kerry Condon, Game of Thrones veteran Tobias Menzies, and real-life Formula 1 racer Lewis Hamilton.

The release date for the film, which is being produced for AppleTV+, has not yet been confirmed.

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More about Brad Pitt F1 Movie Production Pause

• Brad Pitt’s Stand with SAG Strike
• Filming Locations for Brad Pitt’s Formula One Movie
• The Upcoming Cast of Brad Pitt’s F1 Movie
• Brad Pitt’s Collaboration with Joseph Kosinski
• AppleTV+ Production