Hollywood films have consistently found a loyal fan base in India, and 2024 has proven no different. With global blockbusters like Mission: Impossible 8 and now F1 making waves across Indian theatres, the appetite for international cinema among Indian audiences continues to grow. But what’s caught everyone’s attention lately isn’t just the film’s box office numbers—it’s the glowing praise from Bollywood’s very own diva, Deepika Padukone.
Deepika Padukone Is All Praise for Brad Pitt
It’s not every day that a Bollywood superstar publicly gushes over a Hollywood actor, but when it happens, it grabs headlines. Deepika Padukone took to her Instagram stories shortly after watching F1, and her reaction was nothing short of admiration.
“BRAD PITT. THAT’S IT. THAT’S THE POST. IYKYK,” she wrote.
For those unfamiliar with internet slang, IYKYK stands for ‘If You Know, You Know’, a phrase often used to signal something universally understood within a certain group—in this case, the cinematic brilliance of Brad Pitt’s latest role. Her post quickly made waves, further fueling interest in the film.
A Strong Start at the Indian Box Office
While Deepika’s Instagram post has added starry allure to the film’s Indian reception, F1 was already doing well commercially. The sports drama opened at the Indian box office with ₹5.5 crore on Day 1, a solid start for a genre that caters to a niche audience.
By Day 2, the film saw an impressive surge, raking in ₹9.62 crore, bringing the total Indian earnings to ₹15.32 crore in just two days. For a Hollywood sports drama, these are strong numbers in the Indian market and indicate a growing interest in globally relevant, performance-driven cinema.
The Story Behind F1: Speed, Grit, and Redemption
Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the visionary behind films like Top Gun: Maverick, F1 isn’t just a movie about cars—it’s a story about second chances, loyalty, and sheer determination.
Brad Pitt plays a veteran racer returning to the high-octane world of Formula One racing after a 30-year hiatus. His mission? To rescue his former partner’s racing team from disbanding. It’s not just a comeback—it’s a redemption arc set against the roaring engines and tight curves of global F1 circuits.
The film’s racing sequences are a visual treat, pushing the limits of cinematic spectacle. For racing enthusiasts, F1 offers an immersive experience that’s both authentic and adrenaline-charged.
A Star-Studded Cast with Real Racing Power
F1 doesn’t just rely on Hollywood glitz—it adds real-world legitimacy by featuring none other than Lewis Hamilton, the real-life Formula One champion, in a supporting role. His presence enhances the film’s authenticity and adds depth to its racing sequences.
Apart from Brad Pitt, the film boasts a dynamic supporting cast:
Damson Idris brings emotional intensity and charm. Kerry Condon adds nuance to the narrative. Tobias Menzies delivers gravitas, grounding the plot with realism. Javier Bardem brings in his signature edge, elevating the drama.
Together, they create a cinematic experience that feels both expansive and intimate, with Pitt at the very center, delivering what some are already calling one of his finest performances.
Why F1 Resonates with Indian Audiences
Indian audiences have a growing appetite for high-concept, visually compelling films—especially those rooted in emotion and resilience. F1 delivers just that. It marries action with heart, spectacle with soul.
Additionally, the growing popularity of Formula One in India—thanks to increased streaming access, fan communities, and F1 events like the Indian Grand Prix—has created a fertile audience base eager for racing stories. This makes F1 not just a Hollywood release, but a cultural event.
And with Deepika Padukone’s public endorsement, the film is likely to attract even more eyeballs, especially from Bollywood fans who trust her impeccable taste.
A Cinematic Lap Worth Taking
F1 is more than just a film—it’s a cinematic celebration of courage, speed, and legacy. It brings together one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, a world-renowned director, a compelling storyline, and jaw-dropping visuals, creating an unforgettable experience on the big screen.
As the film continues its strong run in Indian theatres, one thing is clear—Brad Pitt still has the magic, and Indian audiences are fully on board for the ride.
Whether you’re a fan of high-speed racing, compelling drama, or just great cinema, F1 is a lap worth taking.