Days of Thunder (1990) Review in 2025
Days of Thunder is a high-octane racing film starring Tom Cruise as a hot-headed NASCAR driver. The movie follows his journey as he navigates the cutthroat world of professional racing, all while dealing with personal demons and a complicated love life.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its mature themes, strong language, and intense racing sequences.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of action, adventure, and sports films. It's a thrilling and emotionally resonant ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie takes a dramatic turn when Cruise's character, Cole Trickle, suffers a devastating crash that leaves him with a severe head injury. As he struggles to recover, he must confront his own mortality and the true cost of his reckless behavior on and off the track.
Review Details
story8.50/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative arc that keeps the viewer invested in Cole's journey. However, some plot points feel a bit contrived and convenient, which detracts from the overall impact of the film.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Tom Cruise delivering a standout performance as Cole Trickle. The supporting cast is also strong, with notable performances from Robert Duvall and Nicole Kidman.
characters8.80/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Cole being a particularly nuanced and relatable protagonist. The supporting cast is also strong, with standout performances from Robert Duvall and Nicole Kidman.
direction9.00/10
Tony Scott's direction is energetic and visually stunning, with a keen eye for action sequences and a deep understanding of the racing world. However, some of the film's more emotional moments feel a bit heavy-handed and manipulative.
cinematography9.20/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the racing tracks and a keen use of color and lighting to create a sense of tension and excitement. The film's use of slow-motion and fast-motion sequences is also noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's high-octane action sequences, stunning cinematography, and strong performances make it a thrilling and engaging watch. The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative arc that keeps the viewer invested in Cole's journey.
Cons
Some plot points feel a bit contrived and convenient, and the film's more emotional moments can feel a bit heavy-handed and manipulative. Additionally, the film's portrayal of women and minorities is somewhat lacking.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a hero, I'm a driver."
"I'm not afraid of anything, except for one thing: losing."
"You're not a winner until you win the championship."
