Miami Vice '85: Universal Pictures Reveals Official Title for Michael B. Jordan Reboot
Universal Pictures confirms Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler will star in Miami Vice '85, set for August 6, 2027. The reboot returns to 1980s Miami with Joseph Kosinski directing the neon-soaked crime thriller.
Miami Vice '85 is the official title for Universal Pictures' highly anticipated reboot starring Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler. As reported by Variety, the title change emphasises the film's 1980s period setting, with a global release date of August 6, 2027.
Key Takeaways
- Miami Vice '85 is the official title for Universal Pictures' reboot starring Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler.
- The film opens globally on August 6, 2027, directed by Joseph Kosinski.
- Michael B. Jordan plays Ricardo Tubbs whilst Austin Butler takes on Sonny Crockett.
- Filming begins later in 2026 and will be shot for IMAX presentation.
- The title reflects the film's mid-1980s setting, the era of the original NBC series.
What is Miami Vice '85 about?
According to Universal Pictures, Miami Vice '85 explores the glamour and corruption of mid-1980s Miami, the same decade when the original NBC series captivated audiences. The film follows undercover detectives Ricardo Tubbs and Sonny Crockett as they navigate dangerous missions in the neon-soaked underworld of Miami's drug trade.
Michael B. Jordan stars as Ricardo Tubbs, the New York City cop who travels to Miami seeking his brother's killer. Austin Butler takes on the role of Sonny Crockett, the local undercover detective who becomes Tubbs' partner. The original series ran from 1984 to 1989, making the '85 setting a perfect homage to the show's peak era.
Director Joseph Kosinski brings his signature visual style to the project, promising a cinematic experience that captures both the iconic aesthetics and gritty storytelling of the original series.
Who stars in Miami Vice '85?
The cast features two of Hollywood's most sought-after actors in the lead roles. Michael B. Jordan, fresh from his Oscar-winning performance in recent projects, brings intensity to Ricardo Tubbs. Austin Butler, who gained critical acclaim for his Elvis portrayal, steps into Sonny Crockett's signature white suits.
The production team includes Dylan Clark (The Batman) as producer alongside Kosinski. Writers Dan Gilroy and Eric Singer crafted the screenplay based on characters created by Anthony Yerkovich, with Michael Mann serving as executive producer — the same duo behind the original series' success.
With anticipated movies generating buzz well into 2027, this casting combination positions Miami Vice '85 as one of the year's most compelling releases.
When and where to watch in UAE
Miami Vice '85 opens globally on August 6, 2027, though UAE-specific release details haven't been confirmed yet. Universal Pictures typically releases major films simultaneously in the region, so UAE audiences can expect the same August date.
The film will be shot for IMAX presentation, meaning premium format screenings will be available in UAE cinemas. Filming begins later this year, with post-production likely extending through 2026 to meet the August 2027 deadline.
Given the August release timing, it'll likely appear in our regular cinema updates as we get closer to the date.
What this means for the franchise
The '85 title signals Universal's commitment to authenticity rather than modern reimagining. This approach mirrors successful period pieces that embrace their era rather than updating for contemporary audiences. With Miami Vice '85 still so far out and very light on details, it does feel like a long runway for hype to build without much to hold onto.
That can create early excitement, but also a risk that interest fades or expectations drift before anything concrete is shown. The substantial lead time until August 2027, coupled with minimal plot details or official visuals, creates both anticipation and potential audience fatigue.
Still, the combination of Kosinski's direction, Jordan and Butler's star power, and the iconic Miami Vice brand creates a compelling foundation for what could be 2027's standout action thriller.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Miami Vice '85 releasing?
Miami Vice '85 is scheduled to open globally on August 6, 2027. UAE release details haven't been confirmed, but Universal Pictures typically releases major films simultaneously in the region.
Who is starring in Miami Vice '85?
Michael B. Jordan stars as Ricardo Tubbs and Austin Butler plays Sonny Crockett. The film is directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Dylan Clark.
Who is directing Miami Vice '85?
Joseph Kosinski is directing Miami Vice '85. Kosinski previously directed Top Gun: Maverick and Tron: Legacy, bringing his signature visual style to the Miami Vice reboot.
What is the plot of Miami Vice '85?
The film explores the glamour and corruption of mid-1980s Miami, following undercover detectives Ricardo Tubbs and Sonny Crockett. It's based on the original NBC series that ran from 1984 to 1989.
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