The key for the Apple Original film "F1: The Drive" has been extended for the fourth time, to 11:59 PM on November 26, 2025.
The film, introduced and distributed by China Film Group Corporation, premiered in mainland China on June 27. Originally scheduled to end at 11:59 PM on July 26, it was postponed to August 26, and then to September 26, October 26, and November 26.
"F1: The Drive" is produced by Apple Original Films and Warner Bros. Pictures. Apple CEO Tim Cook has previously promoted the new film. The film has grossed $658 million worldwide (IT Home Note: approximately 4.696 billion RMB at the current exchange rate).
The film stars Brad Pitt, is directed by Joseph Kosinski, and features music by Hans Zimmer. Seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton also produced.
As an Apple Original, the film broke numerous box office records and received extremely positive reviews. It grossed $25 million on its opening day, including $2.8 million from advance screenings. Analysts had expected the film to open between $35 million and $60 million over the weekend, but it actually grossed $140 million.
Furthermore, the filmmakers secured unprecedented, exclusive filming access to F1 and its Grand Prix weekends, further solidifying the film's success.
Notably, the film's production budget reached $200 million (approximately 1.427 billion RMB at current exchange rates), but Apple didn't rely solely on theatrical releases to recoup its costs. Instead, it prioritized the film's impact on its streaming platform.
The film focuses on the world of F1 racing. Brad Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a rising star in the 1990s whose career is nearly ended by a track accident. Thirty years later, he is invited to join his former teammate's struggling F1 team, embarking on the ultimate challenge of saving the team and aiming for the world championship.
