F1 News: Hamilton plays down talk of F1 movie sequel so soon

(GMM) Lewis Hamilton has played down early speculation about a sequel to the new ‘F1’ feature movie. It’s too soon.

Millions of fans, insiders and curious movie-goers have now seen the film starring Brad Pitt – and not all are impressed.

“The film offers plenty of adrenaline, but also plenty of kitsch,” the Swiss newspaper Blick observed. “And a few jarring scenes.

“The story is superficial, cheesy, and predictable. And for all Formula 1 fans, the bitter aftertaste remains that many key scenes are totally unrealistic.”

Nonetheless, as of today, ‘F1′ has grossed almost $170 million worldwide, and has become Apple Original Films’ most successful theatrical release to date – although not yet recouping its huge investment.

Lewis Hamilton’s company, Dawn Apollo Films, was involved in production of the movie, and among the seven time world champion’s roles was ensuring authenticity.

It’s already being rumored that there will be a sequel.

“I wouldn’t rush into anything,” the Ferrari driver said at Silverstone. “That would be the worst thing we could do.

“Most sequels are much worse than the original anyway,” the 40-year-old told DPA news agency. “It’s been four years of work, so now we should let it simmer for a bit.”

However, Hamilton didn’t entirely rule whether talks a ‘F1 2’ have already been taking place.

“If they were, I wouldn’t say,” he smiled.

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Brad Pitt is currently contemplating an “F1” sequel, as Variety reported that Apple is already talking about a potential follow-up to the racing movie after its $144 million worldwide opening.

“I would want to drive again, selfishly speaking,” Pitt told The National about a sequel. “F1 is still the focus. It needs to be on Joshua Pierce – Damson Idris’s character – and the rest of the team fighting for a championship. Where does Sonny fit in? I’m not sure. Sonny’s probably out on the Bonneville Salt Flats, setting speed records or something like that. So I’m not sure beyond that, just yet.”

“Right now, I’m just pleased as punch that something like this can bring people together. That’s the power of this kind of cinema,” Pitt added.

“F1” director Joseph Kosinski has already floated the idea of making a sequel that would reunite Pitt with his “Interview With a Vampire” co-star Tom Cruise, who showed up to support his friend on the “F1” carpet in London before the film’s opening. The filmmaker went as far to say an “F1” sequel could be a crossover with Cruise’s NASCAR hit “Days of Thunder.”

“Who wouldn’t pay to see those two go head-to-head on the track,” said Kosinski.