Legacy sequels have been coming out more over the past couple of years. Last year saw the release of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a follow-up to Tim Burton’s 1988 film Beetlejuice. Despite initially being slated for release soon after the first film, it spent years in development, and ultimately took decades to come out. Another 21st century legacy sequel came in the form of Blade Runner 2049, which was released 35 years after the original movie. Legacy sequels can do well in theaters, as they inspire both new and returning audiences who are interested in the nostalgia of it all.

One of the 21st century’s most successful sequels so far is Top Gun: Maverick. Similarly to Blade Runner 2049, the movie came out over 35 years after Tom Cruise’s 1986 original movie. Even with the delay, the film did tremendously upon its release, making just shy of $1.5 billion. Maverick was also nominated for several Oscars, including Best Picture, proving its critical success in addition to its commercial merits. Now, Cruise has confirmed that he is officially in development on another long-delayed sequel after Top Gun: Maverick.

Another Days Of Thunder Movie Is In Development

The First Film Came Out In 1990

Cruise has confirmed that a Days of Thunder sequel is being actively developed. Originally released in 1990, it is an action movie about a young stock car driver who gets the chance to compete at a high level. It was directed by Tony Scott and featured a screenplay by Robert Towne that was based on the story by him and Cruise. In addition to Cruise, Days of Thunder featured a leading cast including Robert Duvall, Nicole Kidman, Randy Quaid, Cary Elwes, and Michael Rooker. A sequel was first announced in November 2024.

Speaking with Today, Cruise has confirmed that a Days of Thunder sequel is in the works. The actor said that he is “working on” and “discussing Days of Thunder,” among other things. He did not provide any further updates on the movie’s casting nor the release date information. Check out the full quote from Cruise below:

“It took me 35 years to figure out Top Gun: Maverick, so all of these things we’re working on, we’re discussing Days of Thunder and Top Gun: Maverick.”

What This Means For Days Of Thunder

Sequels Are Important To Cruise

Functionally, the Days of Thunder update provides minimal information as to when and how this legacy sequel will come to fruition. Its active development does, however, confirm the importance of sequels in Cruise’s recent career. Even this year, his big release takes the form of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which is the eighth movie in the franchise and is believed to be a conclusion to the long-running story. Movies like this are sure to pull audiences who have become attached to the first movie and overall series, and the Days of Thunder sequel is no exception.

Source: Today