34 years later, Tom Cruise reportedly wants to make a Days of Thunder sequel

Tom Cruise seems to have an insatiable appetite for sequels. Beyond Top Gun 3 and Mission: Impossible 8, he's now eyeing a surprising follow-up.

A recent Hollywood Reporter article reveals Cruise is in early talks with Paramount for a potential sequel to his 1990 NASCAR drama Days of Thunder. Nothing's set in stone yet – Cruise's involvement hinges on the script (writers are currently being sought) and his packed schedule.

Tom Cruise at the Mission: Impossible Fallout UK Premiere held at the BFI IMAX South Bank, London on July 13, 2018. Photo Credit: Keith Mayhew / Landmark Media

I'll admit, I didn't see this one coming. Days of Thunder wasn't exactly a blockbuster or critical darling when it first hit theaters. But you know what? It's grown on people over the years. And after Top Gun: Maverick‘s massive success, we've learned not to underestimate the nostalgia factor of a Tom Cruise action flick.

That said, don't hold your breath for Days of Thunder 2 just yet. The report emphasizes that Top Gun 3 is still the “top priority” for both Cruise and Paramount. And let's not forget Mission: Impossible 8, which is reportedly racking up a budget close to a mind-boggling $400 million. That one's in post-production and set to hit theaters on May 23, 2025.

Tom Cruise at the Top Gun: Maverick Royal Film Performance at Leicester Square on May 19, 2022. Photo Credit: Gary Mitchell/Landmark Media

For those who might not remember, Days of Thunder was directed by the late Tony Scott. It starred Cruise as a young, ambitious NASCAR driver looking to make his mark. The cast also included Nicole Kidman, Robert Duvall, Randy Quaid, Cary Elwes, Caroline Williams, and Michael Rooker.

What would a sequel even look like after all these years? Your guess is as good as mine. We'll have to wait and see if this project even gets off the starting line.

Last update on 2024-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API