Filming Begins for 'Miami Vice '85' Reboot with Jordan, Butler, and a New Jersey Set
Universal Pictures has commenced production on 'Miami Vice '85,' a film reboot of the 1980s television series. Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler star as detectives Ricardo Tubbs and Sonny Crockett, respectively. Directed by Joseph Kosinski and written by Dan Gilroy, the movie is set for a May 19, 2028 release and will be shot in IMAX. The production has expanded its cast to include John Leguizamo, Walton Goggins, and Michael Irby, while construction of a period-accurate set in Wayne, New Jersey, has begun.
Key points
- Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler are confirmed as the leads, playing Tubbs and Crockett in the new film.
- Joseph Kosinski, known for 'Top Gun: Maverick' and 'F1,' is directing the project.
- Dan Gilroy wrote the screenplay, based on characters created by Anthony Yerkovich for the original series.
- The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 19, 2028, and will be filmed in IMAX.
- Principal photography has started, with a significant set constructed at the Preakness Shopping Center in Wayne, New Jersey.
Background
The original 'Miami Vice' television series aired from 1984 to 1989, created by Anthony Yerkovich and executive produced by Michael Mann. A previous film adaptation was released in 2006, directed by Mann. The current project is a new reboot rather than a sequel, inspired by the pilot episode and first season of the TV show.
How outlets are covering it
Variety and Deadline confirm the start of filming and the core cast, including Jordan, Butler, and recent additions like Michael Irby. Powerboat News provides additional detail on the physical production, noting that a strip mall in Wayne, New Jersey, was transformed into a 1980s Miami street with period shopfronts and vehicles. While Variety lists the full cast, Deadline highlights Irby's role as Lt. Lou Rodriguez, a character originally played by Gregory Sierra. Powerboat News also notes that John Leguizamo is cast as the main villain, a role he previously played in the original series, and mentions potential involvement of a specific 'Miami Vice Edition' boat, though this is not confirmed by other sources.
Why it matters
The project represents a major studio investment in a nostalgic IP, leveraging the success of director Joseph Kosinski's recent action films. The high-profile casting and IMAX format suggest Universal is targeting a wide theatrical audience. The construction of a dedicated set in New Jersey indicates a significant production scale, moving beyond simple location shooting to create a controlled, period-accurate environment.
What to watch
Filming is currently underway in New Jersey and is expected to continue in New York and Miami. The film is slated for a May 19, 2028, release. Michael B. Austin Butler are also set to appear in other upcoming projects, including 'The Thomas Crown Affair' and 'Enemies,' respectively.
- ‘Miami Vice ’85’ First Look: Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler Revive Tubbs and Crockett as Reboot Begins Filming Variety
- Michael Irby Cast In Universal’s ‘Miami Vice ’85’ As Lt. Lou Rodriguez Deadline
- ‘Miami Vice ’85’ First Look: Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler Are Tubbs and Crockett Yahoo
- Miami Vice '85: Leguizamo, Goggins, Holland Join Cast Powerboat News
- 'Miami Vice' Reboot Officially Reveals Tubbs and Crockett Replacement Cast Collider
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Variety