Entertainment Desk: In a landmark weekend for both Apple and Hollywood, Brad Pitt’s high-stakes racing drama “F1” has roared into the global box office with $55.6 million in domestic earnings, securing the tech giant its first theatrical hit. The film also clocked in a robust $88.4 million from 78 international markets, pushing its worldwide total to $144 million after just three days.
Directed by Joseph Kosinski of “Top Gun: Maverick” fame and co-produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, “F1” casts Pitt as a retired Formula One driver lured back into the circuit to mentor a rising rookie, played by Damson Idris.
“F1” an original, adult-oriented film—a rarity in the blockbuster landscape. Its warm reception, marked by glowing reviews and an “A” grade on CinemaScore.
Apple, which financed the film at a reported cost between $200 million and $300 million, outsourced theatrical distribution to Warner Bros. The studio stands to earn a percentage of the box office, which will increase as the film surpasses performance thresholds.
The company strategically promoted “F1” via Apple TV+ home screen takeovers and targeted iPhone push notifications, including offers like $10 discounts for bulk ticket purchases via Fandango.
Yet Apple CEO Tim Cook insists the company’s foray into cinema is driven by storytelling, not hardware sales.
Brad Pitt’s ‘F1’ Fuels Apple’s First Box Office Triumph With $55.6M Debut
