The record budget of one of the most anticipated films of the year

We don’t know yet whether it will be released in theaters or live streaming, but it is still one of the most anticipated movies. Apex, the Formula 1 feature film directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun Maverick) and produced by Sir Lewis Hamilton, stars Brad Pitt as the racing legend.

F1 fans were also able to note the American actor’s presence at the start of free practice at the Silverstone Grand Prix. Unprecedented access to the paddock, which questioned specialists regarding safety conditions and which testifies to the comfortable budget of this Apple production.

A budget whose profitability is almost impossible

And according to several American media, Apex would be based on a record budget of 300 million dollars. An amount that is explained, in particular, by the 140 million spent by Apple to acquire the rights to the project, but also by Brad Pitt’s estimated salary of 30 million dollars (in addition to the main role, he is also a producer through his Plan B Entertainment company. ).

In the end, filming was halted for several months due to a strike by actors and writers in Hollywood, leading to significant budget overruns. Revenue from the film is split between the studio and theaters at 50% of the ticket price, so Apex would need to bring in at least $600 million to break even.

Will Lewis Hamilton star in the movie?

A major challenge, but not an impossible one for Joseph Kosinski, whose Top Gun Maverick grossed nearly $1.5 billion. Due to the amount invested, Apple will not be able to settle with the release of live streaming. Now all that’s left is to find a distributor ready to take on this daunting challenge…

Actual F1 stars are possible but not confirmed. Wanted for a supporting role in the film, Lewis Hamilton eventually turned down the offer. The future Ferrari team driver will still be credited as a consultant as well as a producer.