The glow of neon and the roar of speedboats are set to return as a new Miami Vice film is moving ahead at Universal Pictures. Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan are the actors currently in talks to take on the iconic roles of undercover detectives Sonny Crockett and Ricardo Tubbs. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for blockbusters like Top Gun: Maverick and F1, the reboot is scheduled to begin filming in 2026 for a theatrical release on August 6, 2027.
Casting Updates for Crockett and Tubbs
While fan excitement is high for the potential pairing of Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan, it is important to clarify that their involvement is not yet officially confirmed. According to reports from industry outlets, both actors are in early talks for the project and deals are not finalized.
The plan is for Michael B. Jordan to play the role of Ricardo Tubbs, originally portrayed by Philip Michael Thomas. Austin Butler is in discussions for the part of James “Sonny” Crockett, the character that made Don Johnson a star.
Director Joseph Kosinski has expressed strong enthusiasm for the prospective casting. Speaking at an industry event, he stated:
“Michael is someone I’ve admired for a long time, [and] always wanted to work with him. Austin, I think, is proving himself as someone to watch… If it ends up being those two, I’d be very lucky.”
Director’s Vision and Story Details
Joseph Kosinski’s film will not be a continuation of the 2006 movie starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx, nor will it be a straightforward remake of the 1980s television series. Instead, it aims to be a new take inspired by the original show’s first season, embracing its specific time period.
The official description notes the movie will “explore the glamour and corruption of mid-1980s Miami”. Director Kosinski has confirmed the story will be set in 1985, promising a “full on” period look for the film.
In terms of style, Kosinski plans to shoot the movie for IMAX cameras, aiming to create a visually striking experience that captures the vibrant, stylized aesthetic the original series was famous for.
Background and Film Production Team
The Miami Vice franchise began as a groundbreaking NBC television series that aired from 1984 to 1989. It became a cultural phenomenon, famous for its fashion, music, and stylish portrayal of Miami. A previous film adaptation was released in 2006, directed by the series’ original producer, Michael Mann.
For the new reboot, the creative team behind the camera includes some notable names. The script is written by Eric Warren Singer and Dan Gilroy. Dylan Clark (The Batman) and director Kosinski are on board as producers. This will be Kosinski’s second feature-length project with Universal following the major box office success of F1.
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What Fans Can Expect Next
With a confirmed August 6, 2027 release date on the calendar, the key next step for the project is to finalize the casting deals for its two lead stars. Once that is secured, pre-production will gear up in earnest for the planned start of filming in 2026.
The movie is positioned as a major summer event film for Universal. Director Joseph Kosinski’s recent track record with large-scale, popular films has generated significant confidence in his ability to deliver a fresh and exciting version of the Miami Vice story for a new generation of audiences.
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