I started watching Drive to Survive during COVID. At first it would play in the background, but I will never forget the moment when the announcer came on and said with a British accent “and its lights out and away we go”. I remember swivelling my chair from my computer monitor to face the TV. I realized then that this was more than just a bunch of cars going around the track. There were stories to follow, how technologically advanced the sport really was. We talk more about that in the F1 Fueled by Advanced Data Analytics Article
The drivers, managers and team owners in Formula 1 live life in the fast lane — both on and off the track. This docuseries gives viewers exclusive, intimate access to the people in one of the world’s greatest racing competitions. Formula 1: Drive to Survive reveals the true story of the high-octane sport, which goes beyond the fight to be No. 1. There’s also a battle for the heart, soul and direction of the multibillion-dollar business. Storylines include changes that a team undergoes after an ownership change and the pressure felt to outperform other drivers.
It’s the storyline that gets you hooked !
When watching shows like this, I believe that the key is creating a connecting story line with perspectives, something to create an emotional connection to the story, the brand, the characters ( in this case the drivers) this is what makes it compelling to watch. I assure you, once you do, you will be hooked. After 6 seasons, audience members cannot wait for season 7 !
Continuing the Saga
As we approach Season 7 Lewis Hamilton shocked the Formula 1 world last winter when it was announced that he would be swapping Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025. Now, some 12 months on, Drive to Survive shares fresh insight into his headline-making move during Season 7 of the hit Netflix series – telling the story through multiple personalities and perspectives. F1.com caught up with Executive Producer James Gay-Rees and Co-Executive Producer Tom Rogers – from production company Box To Box – to get a behind-the-scenes account of how it all came together…
Hamilton’s pre-season surprise
“Quite a curveball!” Gay-Rees smiles, when asked about his reaction to Hamilton’s decision at the time, and how the production team – who were getting ready to follow the F1 paddock around the world again – responded.
