Less than two weeks after its release, Apple’s F1 The Movie is poised to surpass the $300 million mark at the global box office. This remarkable achievement not only outpaces the combined worldwide grosses of all its previous theatrical releases but also underscores Apple’s ambitions for big-screen success.
During its opening weekend, F1 The Movie garnered approximately $145 million, placing it alongside major releases like Killers of the Flower Moon, Napoleon, Argylle, and Fly Me to the Moon. This wasn’t just a record for Apple Original Films; it also marked the strongest opening weekend of Brad Pitt’s illustrious career.
On Track for a Record Run
According to the Financial Times, the film is on course to comfortably exceed the $517 million combined global box office of Apple’s previous theatrical endeavors. This success could signify another milestone for Apple: turning a profit on a big-budget movie.
“Apple is also nearing another potential milestone: making money from a big-budget movie. F1, co-produced by Pitt’s Plan B Entertainment (now controlled by French media group Mediawan) and Jerry Bruckheimer Films, had a production budget of more than $200 million, and distribution costs are estimated at more than $50 million.”
The film’s financial trajectory is noteworthy, especially considering the competitive landscape of the film industry. With a production budget exceeding $200 million and distribution costs adding another $50 million, the movie’s profitability is a significant achievement for Apple.
Apple’s Theatrical Ambitions
This development follows Apple’s strategic push into theatrical releases, a move that has been closely watched by industry analysts. Apple’s foray into the world of cinema represents an expansion beyond its traditional digital platform, Apple TV+, which offers a subscription service at $9.99 per month featuring popular shows like Ted Lasso, Severance, and The Morning Show.
As for when F1 The Movie will be available on Apple TV+, the company has yet to announce an official release date. However, industry insiders speculate that the film will likely make its streaming debut within the next few months, aligning with Apple’s strategy to maximize both theatrical and digital revenues.
Implications for the Film Industry
The success of F1 The Movie highlights a potential shift in the film industry’s dynamics, where tech giants like Apple are increasingly becoming influential players. This trend raises questions about the future of traditional film studios and the evolving landscape of movie distribution.
Experts suggest that Apple’s success could encourage other tech companies to invest more heavily in original content, potentially leading to more diverse and innovative offerings for audiences worldwide. The film’s performance also underscores the importance of strategic partnerships, as seen with Apple’s collaboration with Plan B Entertainment and Jerry Bruckheimer Films.
As the film continues its box office run, all eyes will be on how Apple leverages this success to further its ambitions in the entertainment sector. The move represents a significant step in Apple’s journey to becoming a major player in the film industry, with potential implications for how movies are produced, distributed, and consumed in the digital age.
Meanwhile, audiences eagerly await the opportunity to watch F1 The Movie from the comfort of their homes, as the anticipation for its streaming release builds. Whether viewed in theaters or streamed online, the film’s impact on the industry is undeniable, marking a new chapter in Apple’s cinematic journey.
