To describe Joseph Kosinski’s contribution to Hollywood cinema, one would fall short. Since early 2010, his movies have captivated audiences with their innovative technology, stunning sets, thought-provoking messages, and talented casts. One such example is his latest sports drama flick, F1.
Starring Brad Pitt in the leading role, this film draws a similar comparison with Tom Cruise’s Top Gun: Maverick in terms of the lead’s role and adventurous ride. Under Joseph’s direction, these two movies have elevated the cinematic perspective and rendered a different dimension to the art of filmmaking.
In 2010, Joseph Kosinski directed Tron: Legacy, a film that was widely praised for its visual effects, production design, and soundtrack. It went on to become one of the most commercially successful releases of the year. Later in 2017, Joseph collaborated with Tom Cruise for the movie Oblivion, a sci-fi film, marking their first step towards friendship. Besides feature-length films, Joseph has helmed short films as well.
F1
Released on 27 June 2025, the F1 movie has already won over audiences. Fans can’t stop raving about its gripping plot, heart-pounding race, emotional depth, and Hans Zimmer’s background score, which perfectly enhances each scene on screen. The release of the F1 movie on IMAX and 4DX screens has provided a superior quality and cinematic experience for the audience.
The F1 car racing sequences, especially between the two leading actors, Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes and Damson Idris as Joshua Pearce, bring a true adrenaline rush to viewers. This neck-to-neck battle obviously reminds us of Top Gun: Maverick.
Similarities
In FI, Sonny Hayes is recruited by his fellow colleague to drive the F1 car once again because the team is experiencing a downfall. Given the situation, Sonny accepts the offer, even though his personal and professional failures are under scrutiny; he ends up dealing with one of the team’s most arrogant and difficult players, Joshua Pearce. Initially, unknown and unlikable to each other, these two players combat. But as they realise the final goal, Sonny and Joshua build a strong, unbreakable bond, thereby winning the F1 championship.
The portrayal of Sonny’s character—especially the close-up shots of him in F1 racing gear during high-speed scenes—strongly evokes Captain Maverick. The bond between Sonny and his colleague Ruben Ceravantes, played by Javier Bardem, strikes a resemblance between Captain Maverick and Goose, and Maverick and Iceman in Top Gun. Another similarity is the music composer, Hans Zimmer. The legendary music director has lent his symphony to both films.
Top Gun: Maverick
In Top Gun: Maverick, a similarly stubborn captain, played by Tom Cruise, is recruited to train a new generation of pilots for a dangerous mission. Now, as a trainer, the captain must build a team and foster unity, as two of the pilots have significant differences of opinion. The aerial shots and cockpit close-ups of Tom Cruise and the other pilots during dogfights and training sequences sharply capture their facial expressions, physical strain, and emotional reactions, thus rendering the same tension and internal conflicts among the team as F1.
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Differences
Though the story, cast, and musical score may differ, the competition and a protagonist’s backstory for stepping into the plot might add a reminiscent touch. But both film has its own flair and emotional depth.
In short, F1 and Top Gun: Maverick cannot be compared. Performed by iconic actors—Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt—these two films offer unique and special stories to the audience. The creator, Joseph Kosinski, can bring a fresh narrative and dimension to the monochromatic way of storytelling through these films. With subtle expressions and rich storytelling, these films truly deserve special appreciation.
Written By: Tejaswini Prasad