Tom Cruise marked the thirty fifth anniversary of Days of Thunder on June 27, commemorating the deep bond between Hollywood and NASCAR that advanced from the 1990 movie.
In a heartfelt tribute on X, Cruise acknowledged the milestone whereas concurrently cheering for the newly launched F1 function produced by long-time collaborator Jerry Bruckheimer. He wrote:
“I all the time love the enjoyable and adrenaline of a racing movie. At the moment marks two racing milestones for my pal Jerry Bruckheimer, the discharge of F1 and the 35Â 12 months anniversary to the day of our collaboration with the nice Tony Scott on Days of Thunder.”
Cruise additionally shared uncommon behind-the-scenes snapshots from the unique manufacturing, a few of which function him as Cole Trickle alongside the venerable Tony Scott on the helm.
It is a glimpse into Hollywood‘s race-car-drenched coronary heart and a nod from Cruise that the spirit of that film not solely survives, it thrives.
Halfway by means of the publish, Cruise pivoted from nostalgic reflection to franchise-forward anticipation. That pivot culminated in him teasing the chance, but not confirming, a sequel.
When even NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps hints at curiosity, telling CNBC, “I am not suggesting that is the place we’re going,” the suggestion is obvious: the franchise’s return might shift manufacturing from comedic mockery to dramatic authenticity.
Celebrating, reflecting, and speculating
Cruise‘s private celebration caught the attention of followers who’ve lengthy idolized Days of Thunder for uplifting a era of drivers, and for laying the groundwork for the rise of NASCAR tradition.
Much less concerning the style of the movie and extra about its affect, the legacy is obvious on race weekends the place throwback liveries, like Cole‘s white-and-red Lumina or Rowdy‘s black-and-white scheme, are commonplace fixtures.
In recent times, NASCAR veterans, together with Corridor of Famer Jeff Gordon, have publicly campaigned for a sequel. On-line, followers echo this sentiment:
“If Brad Pitt is usually a 61 12 months outdated F1 driver, Tom Cruise is usually a 62 12 months outdated NASCAR driver,” one wrote, capturing the dream that Cruise nonetheless has some highoctane gasoline left within the tank.
In the meantime, Hollywood rumblings recommend motion behind the scenes. A Days of Thunder sequel is reportedly in “growth,” with authentic producer Bruckheimer and Cruise’s crew exploring concepts for each the large display screen and streaming platforms.
Nonetheless in early phases, particulars stay sparse: no finalized script or director, however the potential is promised.
Jerry Bruckheimer, who produced Prime Gun: Maverick and is as soon as once more wedded to the idea, advised Highway & Monitor final week {that a} sequel with Cruise connected is transferring ahead.
Autoweek, in the meantime, picked up on the momentum, asserting that the return of Cole Trickle and Rowdy Burns would function a nostalgic homecoming and maybe a daredevil callback to the 1990 authentic.
