DAYS OF THUNDER (Theatrical Release USA 1990)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.8|5.0 Stars ììì

Days of Thunder—interesting, but not the best NASCAR film out there—tells its story with actors Robert Duvall and Tom Cruise. Robert Duvall, although a great actor, is not the best pick for this racing movie because he seems to be too 'laid back' to ‘bounce off' Tom Cruise's more intense personality. For example, when Duvall is in argument with Tom Cruise over a lost race, Tom Cruise seems to dominate the scene. This film is one of Tom Cruise’s earlier works that shows his talent for acting. He performs well throughout the film.  A little romance with Nicole Kidman intersperses the story's great racing and pit crew scenes.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

A young man recruits into the NASCAR circuit, experiences challenges and competition, builds friends, balances wins with losses, and finds romance.

Additional Thanks

Really good work for Director Tony Scott. Thank you to Executive Producer Gerald R. Molen for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Tim Daland (Randy Quaid), Russ Wheeler (Cary Elwes), Rowdy Burns (Michael Rooker), Big John (Fred Dalton Thompson), and Buck Bretherton (John C. Reilly).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Yes. It's a good study on Tom Cruise's early career.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers