Days of Thunder 2 Should Not Happen

The film “Days of Thunder,” starring Tom Cruise, isn’t usually mentioned among his top films and might not require a sequel. Despite its flaws, this movie stands out in the underdeveloped genre of NASCAR films. On Rotten Tomatoes, it has a rating of 38%, but it still holds a significant place in Hollywood history.

“Days of Thunder,” featuring Tom Cruise, isn’t commonly recognized as one of his best movies or even among the top NASCAR films. Although it may not be deserving of a sequel, it stands out in its genre and has historical importance in Hollywood.

In this movie, the rising stars Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman first crossed paths, a meeting that led to them getting married the same year. They remained together for more than a decade. This film was also the debut of John C. Reilly. It demonstrated the importance of production quality, and even after many years, the racing scenes in “Days of Thunder” still pack a punch when it comes to portraying auto racing. Given Tom Cruise’s penchant for sequels and studios’ enthusiasm for his work, there’s a strong possibility that we might see a second installment of “Days of Thunder“.

The Official Status Of Days Of Thunder 2

Tom Cruise Is Interested In Days Of Thunder 2

In November 2024, there were reports that Tom Cruise was considering bringing back the movie “Days of Thunder,” and was discussing a potential sequel with Paramount Pictures (according to The Hollywood Reporter). During these discussions, they also talked about another sequel for “Top Gun: Maverick.” Interestingly, Paramount distributed both the original “Days of Thunder” and “Top Gun,” and even produced “Top Gun: Maverick.” Both of these movies were directed by Tony Scott. Given that Tony Scott was also behind “Days of Thunder,” it’s plausible that a sequel could be in the works too. An anonymous Paramount executive commented on this possibility.

A Days of Thunder sequel isn’t necessarily a bad suggestion. It could be compared to the idea of revisiting Top Gun, which some may find undesirable. However, I wouldn’t completely rule out the possibility.

Starting from late 2024, there hasn’t been much recent information regarding the project. However, Jeff Gordon, a NASCAR legend and current vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, is also acquainted with Cruise, and he has mentioned that they have discussed the potential for a sequel to Days of Thunder (as reported by NASCAR)).

I’ve discussed the matter with Tom as we both are interested in his taking on the project. If it goes ahead, we aim to be involved.

While securing Cruise or NASCAR for the project might not be challenging, the real hurdle lies in gaining the interest and investment from other parties involved, such as former cast members, production studios, and the audience. It will require significant effort to prepare the ground and set things in motion for this project to take off.

Days Of Thunder Is Not A Top-Tier Tom Cruise Movie

Top Gun And Mission: Impossible Are Far Better Franchises

I’ve been pondering over the idea of a sequel to “Days of Thunder,” but in my opinion, it might not live up to expectations. You see, “Days of Thunder” isn’t like “Top Gun.” The latter movie has left an indelible mark on cinema, and “Top Gun: Maverick” has only served to strengthen that legacy further. While both movies made similar amounts at the box office, with “Top Gun” earning $177 million and “Days of Thunder” earning $158 million, it’s clear that “Top Gun” is a superior film. In fact, on Rotten Tomatoes, it has a 59% rating compared to “Days of Thunder.

Many individuals may find it challenging to recall the storyline of Days of Thunder, whereas the characters and moments from the fighter pilot film Top Gun are widely recognized. Scenes such as the volleyball game, “Iceman”, “Goose”, the phrase “I feel the need… The need for speed“, and everyone singing “Great Balls of Fire” are all iconic reminders of Top Gun. People are familiar with Top Gun in a way they aren’t with Days of Thunder, making it seem like a replica. Given that we already have Top Gun: Maverick, a sequel to Days of Thunder might feel unnecessary.

What made Top Gun: Maverick stand out was getting a glimpse of Cruise in a familiar franchise again, but this time with a fresh set of appealing characters. The action and plot were reminiscent of the original film, but with a contemporary twist. Similarly, calling for Days of Thunder 2 feels redundant, as we’ve already seen what that story has to offer. There’s no need to revisit the same well twice.

Speaking of similarities to the Mission: Impossible film series, Days of Thunder can’t hold a candle to its achievement or significance. The Mission: Impossible franchise is not just a collection of movies fueled by nostalgia; it continually redefines the boundaries of action and thriller genres. A sequel to Days of Thunder, therefore, wouldn’t likely measure up to the standard set by the Mission: Impossible series, making any such comparisons seem unconvincing.

The Days Of Thunder Supporting Cast Would Likely Not Return

Nicole Kidman May Not Be Interested In Working With Her Ex-Husband

One challenge in assembling the cast for the film “Days of Thunder” could lie in bringing everyone back. While Tom Cruise might be open to reprising his role, Nicole Kidman is likely not an option due to her past comments about their divorce being a significant surprise (as shared on Today). Additionally, she has remained relatively quiet regarding the topic of Scientology (as reported by TheAge)), a group that has faced accusations of cult-like behavior from certain court systems (according to FirstAmendment)).

For a potential Days of Thunder 2, Nicole Kidman might find it challenging to join forces with Tom Cruise again, given his long-standing role as a representative for the organization. Actors such as Robert Duvall, who portrays Harry Hogge, are no longer suitable due to aging out of their roles. Cruise himself is quite occupied, with another Mission: Impossible movie and an upcoming project by Alejandro Iñárritu in the next two years. Even a highly committed individual like Cruise can only devote so much time.

Could Days Of Thunder 2 Ever Work?

A Sequel Could Take Place In The F1 Circuit

If Paramount were to agree to produce it, would a sequel to “Days of Thunder” be feasible? Absolutely, it could be. In fact, many films with questionable plots have led to unnecessary sequels. Sometimes these movies might not receive positive reviews, but they can still rake in profits at the box office. At present, racing sports are quite popular, with films like “Ford v Ferrari,” “Drive to Survive,” “Senna,” “Gran Turismo,” and “Ferrari” demonstrating that the racing genre remains vibrant. Since most of these productions focus on different racing disciplines rather than stock car racing (NASCAR), it’s possible that a sequel to “Days of Thunder” could bring a fresh perspective to the sport.

Given the widespread appeal of Formula One racing, there’s a possibility that Cole Trickle (portrayed by Cruise) might step into the role of crew chief for a promising young F1 racer in the style of Ted Lasso introducing an inexperienced American to a European sport. In this hypothetical “Days of Thunder 2”, Cole would find himself not only mentoring a greenhorn driver but also adapting to this foreign racing environment he’s somewhat acquainted with. However, while it’s intriguing, it might be wiser to let the original film stand alone, and until “Days of Thunder” reaches iconic status like “Top Gun”, a sequel could appear redundant.

2025-04-25 16:28