New Wave’s Film Club Roars Into BFI IMAX for a Thrilling Opening Night For F1: The Movie

New Wave Magazine’s Film Club returned for its second outing, this time taking over the iconic BFI IMAX for an electrifying night with our vibrant community of film lovers, reviewers, and cinematic dreamers. The film of the evening promised high-octane thrills and it delivered spectacularly, leaving many of us perched on the edge of our seats, eyes wide as the story unfolded on the biggest screens in the UK.

Photography by @filmsfromb

The film itself was an exhilarating plunge into the breakneck world of Formula 1. Its stunning cinematography captured the pulse of the track, every blur of a speeding car, every glint of sweat on a driver’s brow, every breathtaking overtake that had us collectively holding our breath. Through its compelling storytelling, the film deftly brought themes of redemption, teamwork, and maverick spirit to the fore, reminding us all of the fine line between reckless ambition and heroic courage.

If the visuals pulled us in, the IMAX experience locked us there. Watching this film on an IMAX screen felt like strapping into the cockpit yourself, the scale and clarity amplified the sensation of speed and stakes, every sweeping track shot and tight pit lane exchange larger than life.

The sound design deserves its own standing ovation. Crafted by the brilliant Al Nelson and legendary composer Hans Zimmer, the audio work transformed roaring engines, screeching tyres, and bone-jarring crashes into a symphony of adrenaline. The sound was was a heartbeat that synced with ours, surging and softening to match every twist in the story.

Our film club added its own colour to the night. Between heart-wrenching moments and bursts of humour from well-drawn, culture-rich characters, our members found themselves leaning into side conversations, exchanging knowing nods, and sharing bursts of laughter that reminded us why we come together like this in the first place. One attendee summed it up perfectly:

"Thank you so much for having me. I had a wonderful time! I especially enjoyed sitting together as a group before the screening, connecting with like-minded individuals, and engaging in meaningful conversations. Overall, it was an incredible experience, and I’m really looking forward to more film club events in the future."

The performances at the film’s core were magnetic. Brad Pitt held down the lead with his trademark smooth, sub-zero composure, a veteran racer with nothing to prove but everything to lose. Alongside him, Damson Idris proved more than capable of holding his own next to the Hollywood heavyweight. Idris delivered a charismatic performance, balancing youthful swagger with an impressively nuanced arc of growth and self-discovery that never felt forced.

Coming in, expectations from our community were sky high, and this blockbuster didn’t disappoint. As the credits rolled and the house lights rose, our circle gathered to swap thoughts, praise and (constructive) critiques. Many praised the authenticity brought by the inclusion of real drivers and the film’s visceral, behind-the-helmet immersion into the world of speed racing. Some did note the story leaned on a formula we know well,  the underdog rise, the redemption arc, the mentor-protégé dynamic, but even those voices agreed: when the formula’s this finely tuned, you buckle up and enjoy the ride. Another film club attendee echoed the same sentiment:

"What an experience! I loved that we were able to watch the film as a community and enjoy it together in real time. It’s the kind of thing that reminds you why you love cinema,it’s about sharing moments and memories with others. Thanks again :)"

For most of us, it was a night that reminded us of cinema’s power to transport and unite. We came out with hearts racing, eyes bright, and a shared excitement for what’s next on the slate. One thing’s certain: the New Wave Magazine Film Club is here to stay — and we can’t wait for the next screening to bring us together again!

Book tickets to watch the film at the BFI IMAX here: www.bfi.org.uk/imax