Apple Explores Film Distribution Unit with $250M Bet on Brad Pitt's 'F1' and North Road Deal

Apple is reportedly considering starting its own film distribution unit, with a budget of around $250M for the Brad Pitt movie "F1". The company has also signed a deal with North Road, led by Peter Chernin, to release new movies. FuboTV and Weigel Broadcasting Co. have announced a multi-year agreement for distribution of seven networks, including MeTV and the WNBA's Chicago Sky.

Apple Inc. (AAPL) is reportedly considering establishing its own film distribution unit, as it seeks to bolster its presence in the theatrical space. The tech giant has allocated around $250 million for the distribution of the upcoming Brad Pitt movie "F1," according to a report by The Wall Street Journal [1].

The move comes as Apple continues to expand its entertainment offerings. In 2019, Apple entered the Hollywood scene with the launch of Apple TV+, a streaming service that has since grown to include a robust slate of original content. The company has also inked a multi-year first-look feature film deal with Chernin Entertainment, a production powerhouse behind hits like "Hidden Figures" and "Ford v Ferrari" [2].

The film "F1," directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, is set to premiere in theaters on June 27. The movie, which has a hefty production budget of at least $200 million, is expected to open to $40 million to $50 million in North America and another $75 million overseas, according to Variety [3]. Warner Bros. is distributing the film for Apple, but the tech giant is exploring the possibility of launching its own theatrical distribution division.

Apple's foray into film distribution is part of a broader strategy to leverage its massive market capitalization and consumer base to gain a competitive edge in the entertainment industry. The company has already made history as the first streaming service to win the Academy Award for Best Picture with "CODA" [2].

Meanwhile, Apple TV+ has also been making waves in the television market. The service has signed a multi-year agreement with FuboTV and Weigel Broadcasting Co. to distribute seven networks, including MeTV and the WNBA's Chicago Sky [4].

The success of "F1" will be a crucial test for Apple's theatrical ambitions. The film, which features a hefty budget and a star-studded cast, is expected to generate significant box office revenue, both domestically and internationally. The international popularity of the Formula One sport is likely to boost the movie's commercial prospects.

In conclusion, Apple's $250 million bet on "F1" and its exploration of a new film distribution unit represent a significant step in the company's entertainment expansion. As Apple continues to invest in original content and explore new distribution channels, it remains to be seen how the tech giant will fare in the competitive world of film and television.

References:
[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/apple-considers-theatrical-distribution-unit-140537510.html
[2] https://macdailynews.com/2025/06/23/apple-tv-inks-first-look-feature-film-deal-with-media-mogul-peter-chernin/
[3] https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/brad-pitt-f1-fire-up-box-office-m3gan-2-1236301336/
[4] https://www.aol.com/brad-pitt-f1-top-box-155740746.html