I Recently Watched Days Of Thunder For The First Time, And I Didn’t Get Why Tom Cruise Would Choose It To Usher Him Into His Sequel Era – Until Now

I Recently Watched  Days Of Thunder For The First Time, And I Didn't Get Why Tom Cruise Would Choose It To Usher Him Into His Sequel Era – Until Now

As a millennial who grew up on the fast-paced world of streaming and social media, I approached Days of Thunder with a healthy dose of skepticism and nostalgia-induced curiosity. Having only heard tales of its iconic status, I was eager to see what all the fuss was about.


For a long time, “Days of Thunder” was one of those Tom Cruise films that people often talked about, yet I had never watched it myself. The legend surrounding the movie made me feel as though I’d already seen it: Tom Cruise, known for his private nature, met Nicole Kidman in real life! He got to race cars on screen! She sported her natural curls!

More recently, I managed to secure a DVD copy of the film and gave it a spin. Contrary to my assumptions, I thought it would be an enjoyable sports movie showcasing great chemistry between Cruise and Kidman. As a millennial who wasn’t around when this movie was initially released, I didn’t have any nostalgic feelings towards it, and found the writing and execution quite challenging. Frankly, I couldn’t fathom why the actor would pick it given his expanding portfolio in classic sequels… until now.

What It’s Like To Watch Days Of Thunder For The First Time Nearly 25 Years Later

Previously, I mentioned that I watched the movie “Days of Thunder” on DVD. However, I later discovered that one can stream the 1990 film by subscribing to Paramount Plus.

The film begins with an “epic” nineties soundtrack and scenes of a talented young race car driver, portrayed by Michael Rooker. The main premise involves a car dealer aiming to rise in the racing world, who enlists Robert Duvall’s character, Harry Hogge, for assistance. Initially considering Rowdy Burns (Rooker), Hogge eventually decides to construct a vehicle for the newcomer, Tom Cruise’s Cole Trickle.

Reflecting on it after twenty-five years, I must admit that Days of Thunder appears rather outdated, unlike the original Top Gun where its age adds charm. While the racing scenes are undeniably flashy, the film’s tempo sometimes creates an uncomfortable vibe; it certainly carries the mark of its time. This sentiment also applies to the soundtrack, which oscillates between classic rock and an electronica-inspired score that can seem rather amusing at times.

The film is overflowing with one-liners such as “Son is speeding up,” “Creating a driver is similar to building a car,” and “We resembled a monkey having intercourse with a football out there.” This style, which was successful in the movie Twisters, might explain the absurdity of some lines. However, it was somewhat unexpected to me that this Jerry Bruckheimer-produced film is occasionally praised by critics as one of the top action movies.

Lately, there’s been talk that Paramount Pictures is considering a sequel to the 1990 film “Days of Thunder,” and I’ve been wondering if this could be beneficial. It appears that many people hold the original movie in high regard.

The Fans Have Cleared This Up For Me

Are we talking about the playful banter between Duvall and Cruise, the concept of Tom Cruise actually racing, or the youthful spirit he exudes as a racer? Or could it be that we’re all yearning for the familiar comfort of ’80s and ’90s nostalgia? However, I suspect many are just eager for more Tom Cruise sequels.

I’ve done a little detective work, and it appears that there has been a growing anticipation among fans for another portrayal by Tom Cruise as Cole Trickle. As far back as 2023, critic Mike Ryan expressed this sentiment.

Indeed, he was thrilled to the core upon hearing about the “Days of Thunder 2” announcement. Movie enthusiasts, particularly those who loved the original, seem especially excited about the return, as they reflect on the exceptional work of the late director Tony Scott and the unique visual style the film showcased.

Nonetheless, some viewers appear to adore this show mainly due to its excessive nature, especially when Nicole Kidman’s character as a doctor becomes extremely intense in her pursuit of the young racer, or when Duvall plays his part with remarkable intensity.

It appears that there’s interest in creating another movie, which would offer Tom Cruise the opportunity to engage in high-octane activities such as car racing once more.

Some Problems With A Potential Days Of Thunder 2

It’s quite clear that if Days of Thunder were to make a comeback, many of the enchanting moments that captivated the audience originally might not reoccur. Given her current projects like another season of Big Little Lies or Season 2 of The Perfect Couple on Netflix, it seems unlikely that Nicole Kidman would be eager to star in a romantic movie with her ex-husband.

As a gamer, I’ve faced similar situations before. For instance, just like how Tom Cruise handled the casting for Top Gun: Maverick, where original lead Kelly McGillis was replaced by Jennifer Connelly. Interestingly, McGillis wasn’t even approached to reprise her role.

Robert Duvall is indeed alive, though he’s turning 93 this year, which makes one wonder if he’d be interested in portraying a pit crew boss again. There’s been ongoing speculation about his health, but a smaller role might still be possible. As for Tony Scott, sadly, he passed away in 2012, so there would be significant changes if this project were to proceed.

It seems to me that if we manage to secure this movie, it could serve as an opportunity for Tom Cruise to take control of a big vehicle once more. Given his age (62), I’m curious if he might switch roles and play the mentor figure instead, like Duvall did in the original. Although we’re only at the beginning stages, I’m starting to see why fans are optimistic about Days of Thunder 2.

If the film Top Gun: Maverick serves as an example, Cruise and his team seem to excel at transforming previously enjoyable yet not extraordinary films into something akin to high art. Time will tell if this is true in other cases.

Discussing the actor Tom Cruise, who has mostly avoided sequels in his career outside of the ongoing Mission: Impossible series, now finds himself with another potential sequel, Days of Thunder. This raises a question – is this reluctance towards sequels starting to change? Personally, if I were to choose any movie that Tom Cruise should make a sequel for, it would be Edge of Tomorrow 2.

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2024-11-07 20:38