Police procedurals will never, ever get old, apparently. There’s something about digging into that dark and complex world of drugs, crime, and drama that audiences love. Back in the late ‘80s, there was Miami Vice (1984-1989), which deviated from the typical procedural format and drenched it in pop culture and stylish visuals. It didn’t have the longevity of the others, but it did produce one film adaptation in 2006. Now, a new Miami Vice film adaptation is in the works with Universal with Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski at its helm. The film will be titled Miami Vice ’85 and star Oscar winner Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler.
Dan Gilroy will pen the film’s script. We know that Gilroy, who happens to be Tony Gilroy’s brother (Andor), knows the action world well. He wrote Nightcrawler as well as The Bourne Legacy starring Matt Damon. Right now, things are in the very early stages so we don’t know who will star in this film. The 2006 film by Michael Mann had Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx in the leading roles.
While it is not impossible for either of them to return in some capacity for a clever cameo, Butler and Jordan are undoubtedly the leads for this film. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Miami Vice ’85 will be a period piece that pays homage to the TV series. Butler will play James “Sonny” Crockett, the same role that Don Johnson played in the show, while Jordan will portray Ricardo Tubbs, which was Philip Michael Thomas’ role.
Miami Vice ’85 will hit theaters on August 6, 2027 with shooting happening sometime in 2026. We will keep our eyes peeled for more information about this new Miami Vice film adaptation.
Originally published on April 29, 2025.