Still in the race to hit $500 million in global box office, F1: The Movie gets a second wind in theaters. Apple is extending its theatrical run with an IMAX re-release scheduled for August 8, thus delaying its debut on Apple TV+.
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A New Opportunity to Experience the Race on a Large Scale
Despite some naysayers, it’s one of the biggest hits of the year, and Apple’s most successful theatrical release to date. F1: The Movie, a major event film co-produced by Apple Original Films and shot on Formula 1 circuits in partnership with the FIA, continues to rule the global box office, nearing the $500 million mark in earnings. While many were anticipating its upcoming release on Apple TV+, Apple is extending its stay in theaters: the film will return in IMAX format starting August 8.
For this occasion, the news was confirmed by the CEO of IMAX, Rich Gelfond, during the company’s quarterly earnings call. The previous IMAX run had to be cut short, as premium screens were quickly taken over by other summer blockbusters.
But given the strong ongoing demand and the film’s sustained commercial performance, Apple and IMAX are relaunching a series of large-format screenings. This is great news for those who haven’t yet seen the movie in the immersive setting it was designed for.
A Strategic Move for Apple Original Films
This return also reaffirms Apple’s new strategy in the movie industry. After tentatively exploring theatrical releases, the Cupertino-based company is heavily investing in big-budget productions with a true Hollywood ambition, more successful than last year’s Napoleon or Killers of the Flower Moon.
With F1: The Movie, Apple now holds a true global blockbuster, capable of competing with traditional studio productions. And judging by the box office numbers, the audience is there, even outside of the streaming platform.
A Bit More Patience Before Apple TV+
For fans eager to enjoy Brad from the comfort of their homes, the release on Apple TV+ shouldn’t be too far off. But it’s clear that Apple prefers to maximize its returns before offering it on streaming.