Tom Cruise is exploring the possibility of a sequel to his 1990 NASCAR racing film, Days of Thunder. This venture marks yet another ambitious project for the actor-producer, who is also developing a sequel to the blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick and determining the future of the Mission: Impossible franchise.
Cruise has initiated discussions with Paramount about reviving Days of Thunder, despite its mixed reception upon release. The film earned $157 million worldwide against a $60 million budget, but its performance did not solidify it as a classic at the time. However, following the successful revival of Top Gun, which resonated with both audiences and critics, Cruise believes a similar reimagining could breathe new life into his racing drama.
Plans for a Days of Thunder reboot have surfaced in the past, including a proposed television series for Paramount+, which Cruise ultimately declined. The current project hinges on finding the right script, as the studio is actively seeking potential writers. At 62, Cruise’s busy schedule includes shooting a new film with acclaimed director Alejandro G. Iñárritu, developing a space-based project with Doug Liman, and prioritizing a Top Gun sequel.
As one studio insider noted, “He’s talking [to Paramount] about Top Gun and Days of Thunder. It’s going to be what comes together first in terms of a script.” The expectation is that Cruise will have approval over the script, as he does with all his projects.
In recent years, racing films have gained traction, evident in the success of Ford v Ferrari (2019) and the recent Ferrari release. Next year’s Formula 1 film starring Brad Pitt adds to this trend, directed by Top Gun helmer Joseph Kosinski. The challenge of reviving Days of Thunder lies in its uniqueness within the NASCAR world, offering a distinctly American perspective compared to the European-centered Le Mans and Formula 1 films.
Despite initial skepticism, insiders believe that a sequel could be successful. “You might have said that revisiting Top Gun was a terrible idea. I wouldn’t discount it,” one source remarked. The original Days of Thunder retains a loyal fan base, including filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, who expressed his admiration for the film. He stated, “Hands down my favorite [racing movie] is Days of Thunder. I just don’t think [the genre] works if you take the whole thing too seriously.”
The project is not the only significant undertaking for Cruise. Mission: Impossible 8 has recently completed production and is currently in post-production. The film has faced numerous challenges, including a staggering budget that reportedly nears $400 million and delays caused by the 2023 Hollywood strikes. Despite the difficulties, the Mission: Impossible franchise remains popular, with Dead Reckoning — Part One achieving over 94% on Rotten Tomatoes, even if its global box office of $566 million fell short of expectations.
While Paramount is looking to promote M
8 as potentially the final installment in the series, Cruise is hesitant to officially end his portrayal of Ethan Hunt. He expressed his desire to continue making Mission: Impossible films well into his 80s, drawing inspiration from other iconic actors like Harrison Ford.
The studio remains optimistic about M
8 and plans to showcase the film at the Cannes Film Festival, which could elevate audience interest. With the festival’s timing just before the movie’s theatrical release, any critical feedback will likely arrive shortly after the film’s debut, keeping anticipation high.
As discussions continue, one studio insider remarked, “I think Tom’s in a good place. And I think Mission is going to be really good.” With the potential for both a Days of Thunder sequel and another Mission: Impossible adventure on the horizon, Tom Cruise is firmly positioned to continue captivating audiences with his iconic roles.
