Brad Pitt, the Oscar-winning actor, has encountered a significant hurdle in the production of his upcoming racing film following the conclusion of the Sag-AFTRA strike. The 59-year-old star, set to portray a veteran Formula One ace in a project directed by Joseph Kosinski, had to grapple with the fallout of changes in sponsorship deals that led to the abandonment of hours of previously recorded footage.
Pitt and his production team had captured extensive footage during the first half of the F1 season, featuring the actor behind the wheel of a Formula Two car with an added Formula One aero package at Silverstone Circuit in July. However, complications arose after a writer’s strike was concluded in October, coinciding with the termination of the actor’s strike this month. This resulted in alterations to sponsorship deals, rendering the pre-recorded film unusable, as revealed by an insider to The Sun.
Describing the situation as a “nightmare” for Pitt and the production team, the source highlighted the impact on planned filming events throughout the year. The changes in sponsorship have necessitated the recreation of high-speed moments and wide shots for the film.
“It’s gutting for Brad and Lewis [Hamilton] who see this project as their baby,” lamented the insider.
Co-produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and British racing legend Lewis Hamilton, the untitled racing movie holds significant importance for both Pitt and Hamilton. Despite financial considerations and the challenging decision to postpone production, Pitt, according to previous reports, prioritized showing support for his team amid the aftermath of the strikes.
As the production team faces the task of adapting to the changed landscape, the setback underscores the intricate challenges involved in bringing the racing movie project back on track.
