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Stanford Alum Kosinski Shares Filmmaking Journey at FLiCKS Screening
Director of 'F1: The Movie' recounts his path to Hollywood at campus film series revival.
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Stanford alumni and film director Joseph Kosinski returned to campus on Sunday to participate in a screening and discussion of his latest movie, 'F1: The Movie', as part of the revived FLiCKS film series. Kosinski, who graduated from Stanford in 1996, shared insights into his journey from student to acclaimed director of films like 'Tron: Legacy' and 'Top Gun: Maverick'.
Why it matters
The FLiCKS screening series has been a beloved Stanford tradition since 1939, providing students a chance to watch films and engage with industry professionals. Kosinski's visit highlights how the program continues to connect current students with accomplished alumni working in the entertainment industry.
The details
Kosinski's film 'F1: The Movie' tells the story of veteran American racing driver Sonny Hayes, played by Brad Pitt. The director discussed his own experiences as a student at Stanford and how they influenced his path to becoming a successful filmmaker in Hollywood.
- The FLiCKS screening series was revived at Stanford in 2024 after a long hiatus.
- The latest FLiCKS event took place on Sunday, February 25, 2026.
The players
Joseph Kosinski
A 1996 Stanford alumnus and acclaimed film director known for movies like 'Tron: Legacy' and 'Top Gun: Maverick'.
Sonny Hayes
The veteran American racing driver character played by Brad Pitt in Kosinski's film 'F1: The Movie'.
What they’re saying
“I saw 'True Romance' here with a girl from my dorm who would soon be my wife,”
— Joseph Kosinski (Stanford Daily)
The takeaway
Kosinski's visit to Stanford demonstrates how the revived FLiCKS screening series continues to provide current students opportunities to connect with accomplished alumni working in the entertainment industry and learn from their experiences.
