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Tom Cruise, Jerry Bruckheimer Rev Up 'Days of Thunder' Reboot

Jonathan Levine is in talks to direct the new take on the 1990 racing film, which Cruise and Bruckheimer would produce.

By The Screen Report Editorial Team
2 min read
Tom Cruise, Jerry Bruckheimer Rev Up 'Days of Thunder' Reboot
Photo via caranddriver.com
Developing Story
“Now, it looks like we're closer than ever to a reboot of the film”
— reported by Car and Driver
The Details
Director
Tony Scott (1990 original)
Starring
Tom Cruise, Robert Duvall, Nicole Kidman
Release
1990
Genre
Adventure, Action, Drama
Where to Watch
Paramount+, fuboTV, Philo, AMC+

A new take on the 1990 racing film 'Days of Thunder' is reportedly moving closer to production, with original star Tom Cruise and producer Jerry Bruckheimer attached, according to Car and Driver. Sundance award winner Jonathan Levine is in talks to direct the project, which would bring the NASCAR-themed story back to the big screen.

The development follows the massive success of Cruise's Top Gun: Maverick and the global box office performance of the 2025 film F1: The Movie. The report suggests Hollywood is keen to capitalize on renewed interest in motorsport films. The original Days of Thunder was a theatrical release that grossed $158 million worldwide against a $60 million budget, according to verified data, and is currently available to stream on services including Paramount+ and fuboTV.

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Who is involved in the reboot?

Tom Cruise and Jerry Bruckheimer are reportedly attached as producers for the reboot. Cruise famously starred as hotshot driver Cole Trickle. The new project would be directed by Jonathan Levine, though his involvement is still in the talks stage. No casting for the lead role or other characters has been announced.

What was the original 'Days of Thunder'?

Released in 1990 and directed by Tony Scott, Days of Thunder starred Tom Cruise as Cole Trickle, a talented but unproven stock car driver who gets his break with the guidance of veteran crew chief Harry Hogge, played by Robert Duvall. The film follows Trickle's intense rivalry with another driver, played by Michael Rooker, and his recovery from a serious crash with the help of a doctor, played by Nicole Kidman. The film was rated PG-13 and has a 38% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes.

What's the status of the project?

The report from Car and Driver characterizes the reboot as "closer than ever" to happening, but it remains in the development phase. With key producers attached and a director in negotiations, the next major step would be securing a script and cast. The project does not yet have a release date or an official title.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I watch the original 'Days of Thunder'?

As of July 2026, the 1990 film Days of Thunder is available to stream in the U.S. on several platforms, including Paramount+, fuboTV, Philo, and AMC+.

Did the original 'Days of Thunder' make money?

Yes. According to verified data, the film was a financial success, grossing $158 million worldwide against a production budget of $60 million.

Who directed the original film?

The 1990 Days of Thunder was directed by the late Tony Scott. The cast included Tom Cruise, Robert Duvall, Nicole Kidman, and Michael Rooker.

Is this a sequel or a full reboot?

The report from Car and Driver refers to the project as a "reboot," suggesting it is a new take on the concept rather than a direct sequel continuing the story of Cole Trickle.

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