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Days of Thunder, the 1990 action-packed sports drama starring Tom Cruise, is often remembered for its high-octane racing sequences and intense on-screen rivalry between NASCAR drivers. The film, directed by Tony Scott and produced by the powerhouse duo Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, not only became a box-office success but also cemented Cruise's status as a leading Hollywood action star.
One of the key elements that contributed to the film's authenticity was its use of real-life racing locations in Daytona Beach, immersing viewers in the world of stock car racing.
The movie's production spanned several iconic tracks and locales, each chosen to bring the high-speed action to life on the big screen.
Exploring more details on the filming location of Days of Thunder
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The principal photography for Days of Thunder began in early 1990, with filming at various locations that are significant in the world of NASCAR racing.
The film crew shot extensively in and around Charlotte, which is known by many as the heartland of NASCAR. Located at the center stage was Charlotte Motor Speedway, a primary shooting place that allowed the film to record actual track footage and alluring ambiance attached to NASCAR events.
Apart from Charlotte, the Daytona International Speedway based in Daytona Beach, Florida, also featured in the movie. This is another solid pillar within the world of NASCAR that's famous for hosting one of the sport's most prestigious races, Daytona 500.
By choosing Daytona as their setting, audiences could witness some truly unforgettable moments on screen at one of the most iconic raceways ever built and renowned throughout history.
What is Days of Thunder about?
Days of Thunder is centered on Cole Trickle, a young and ambitious race car driver played by Tom Cruise.
Although Trickle has a strong background in open-wheel racing, he becomes a NASCAR Cup Series contender after being employed by Tim Daland, a Chevrolet dealership magnate portrayed by Randy Quaid.
Upon the advice of experienced crew chief Harry Hogge (Robert Duvall), the boy steps foot into the stock car department for the first time, meets other professional pilots and encounters strains brought about by sporting.
Trickle’s journey in the movie involves trying to adjust to completely new challenges in NASCAR racing, including bitter rivalries and the physical endurance required by the sport. His chief nemesis is Rowdy Burns who appears initially as someone scary that frightens him away but eventually becomes a close friend.
Other than exciting races that take place at the Daytona Speedway and Talladega Superspeedway among others, the movie also shows the personal side of the young racer, like his love affair with Dr Claire Lewicki, a neurosurgeon played by Nicole Kidman.
Through the course of events, Trickle is faced with several obstacles in his quest to be a champion, including but not limited to an almost fatal crash and the introduction of a new rival, Russ Wheeler.
The Daytona 500 race is the climax of everything in which Trickle’s skills as well as determination are put to the test, and it also highlights him as a rising star in NASCAR.
Cast details of the movie
The cast members for Days of Thunder include Tom Cruise who plays Cole Trickle, a name that was taken from auto racer Dick Trickle and whose personality was loosely patterned after Tim Richmond, one of NASCAR’s most successful drivers.
Harry Hogge, Trickle’s instructor and mechanic in the NASCAR world, was played by Robert Duvall. However, Harry Hyde, a real-life NASCAR crew chief inspired the character played by Duvall, and Nicole Kidman stars as Dr. Claire Lewicki.
Randy Quaid stars as Tim Daland, the owner of the team, and supports Trickle in his career, while Michael Rooker acts as Rowdy Burns, who happens to be Trickle’s enemy-turned-friend.
Meanwhile, Cary Elwes plays Russ Wheeler. an antagonist to Trickle for supremacy on tracks. Richard Petty and Rusty Wallace appear as themselves, making the movie more realistic.
Interested viewers can watch Days of Thunder on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+.
