Universal Unveils 'Miami Vice '85' First Look: Joseph Kosinski Pairs Austin Butler and Michael B. Jordan as Crockett & Tubbs

Millennial moviegoers, action cinephiles, and retro enthusiasts have officially received their first glimpse at one of Hollywood's most stylish cinematic undertakings. Universal Pictures has unveiled the scorching first-look image for Miami Vice '85, showcasing Hollywood A-list leading men Austin Butler (Elvis, Dune: Part Two) and Michael B. Jordan (Creed, Black Panther) stepping into the sun-drenched, high-risk shoes of legendary undercover detectives James "Sonny" Crockett and Ricardo "Rico" Tubbs. Directed by blockbuster visionary Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick, F1), the ambitious feature film reboot is currently in active production ahead of its worldwide theatrical rollout on May 19, 2028.

The newly revealed still immediately confirms that Kosinski is leaning unapologetically into authentic 1980s aesthetic grandeur rather than modernizing the iconic property. When director Michael Mann revisited the premise in his moody 2006 feature film starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx, it embraced contemporary digital realism. In sharp contrast, Miami Vice '85 transports audiences straight back to the neon-drenched decadence, throbbing synthwave basslines, and ruthless undercover narcotics warfare of mid-1980s South Florida. Butler channels the quintessential cool of original TV star Don Johnson with unbuttoned pastel tailoring and vintage sunglasses, while Jordan brings smoldering tactical intensity to the role originated by Philip Michael Thomas.

Dan Gilroy Penning the Screenplay Alongside Joseph Kosinski

The creative powerhouse operating behind the camera matches the heavyweight talent on screen. The screenplay is penned by Academy Award-nominated writer Dan Gilroy (Nightcrawler, The Bourne Legacy), collaborating closely with Kosinski and co-writer Eric Warren Singer (American Hustle). Acclaimed producer Dylan Clark (The Batman, Rise of the Planet of the Apes) is shepherding the project alongside Kosinski through Dylan Clark Productions, guaranteeing a visceral crime thriller that balances character-driven noir with groundbreaking practical vehicle stunts and panoramic IMAX cinematography.

An Electrifying Supporting Ensemble

Universal has assembled a stellar supporting cast spanning prestige television and acclaimed cinema. Solo: A Star Wars Story and Oppenheimer standout Alden Ehrenreich features prominently in the undercover unit, joined by Emmy-nominated Daisy Jones & The Six star Camila Morrone and veteran scene-stealer Walton Goggins (Fallout, The White Lotus, Justified). In a brilliant nostalgic Easter egg, veteran character actor John Leguizamo—who made memorable guest appearances during the original NBC television broadcast—returns to the franchise universe in an all-new key role.

The ensemble is further elevated by Danny Ramirez (Top Gun: Maverick, Captain America: Brave New World), Andre Holland (Moonlight, The Knick), Michael Irby (Mayans M.C.), and rising talent Whitney Peak (Hocus Pocus 2, Gossip Girl). For millennials who appreciate peak 80s nostalgia, razor-sharp detective drama, and pure cinematic adrenaline, Miami Vice '85 promises to be one of the definitive action events of the decade.