“F1: The Movie,” the highly anticipated sports drama starring Brad Pitt, is set to make its global streaming debut on Apple TV on December 12, just in time for the holiday season. The film, which was initially released in theaters in June, achieved remarkable success at the global box office, grossing an impressive $629 million. This figure not only made it the highest-grossing movie of Brad Pitt’s career but also established it as the biggest film ever for Apple Original Films, being one of only six releases in 2025 to surpass the $600 million mark.

Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for “Top Gun: Maverick,” “F1” tells the story of Pitt’s character, a former Formula One driver, who comes out of retirement. His mission is to coach a rookie driver and help save a struggling team. The stellar cast includes Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, and Tobias Menzies, with real-life Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton also serving as one of the film’s producers.

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s been thrilling to see audiences around the world embrace ‘F1 The Movie’ in theaters. Now, we’re beyond excited to bring this exhilarating, cinematic ride to fans everywhere through Apple TV’s unparalleled global reach. Partnering with Apple and Formula 1 has been an incredible journey, and we’re proud that even more viewers, from every corner of the world, will get to experience the heart-pounding action and passion that defines ‘F1.’”

The success of the $250 million-budgeted “F1” is seen as a significant positive step for Apple’s fledgling studio amidst previous commercial challenges, including films like “Killers of the Flower Moon” and “Napoleon.” The film’s strong performance was boosted by positive word-of-mouth, its availability in premium formats such as Imax and Dolby, and its widespread international appeal, with overseas territories contributing a substantial $439 million to its ticket sales.

Owen Gleiberman, chief film critic for Variety, lauded the action adventure, remarking that “there’s a certain kind of summer movie that’s so revved and ready to go, so fuel-injected with flash and talent and star power, not to mention an irresistible subject, that before the movie is barely under way you can feel yourself getting excited about being excited. ‘F1’ is one of those movies.” The film’s critical and commercial triumph underscores its impactful integration of high-octane racing drama with compelling human stories.