Theater owners want to see more from Apple at a time when they’re often struggling with a lack of compelling material, especially for grown-ups. With 'F1,' they saw a glimpse of hope.

But the movie cost at least $350 million to make and market, analysts said, so it will need to attract substantial crowds in the weeks ahead to make money.

Apple's "F1" movie with Brad Pitt captured the checkered flag in its opening weekend, but there's reason to think that its success could be a one-off.