The high-stakes assembly of talent for Universal Pictures’ upcoming reimagining of the iconic 1980s television series Miami Vice has gained further momentum with the addition of Edi Gathegi. Gathegi, whose recent turn as the tactical genius Mr. Terrific in the 2024 blockbuster Superman earned him widespread acclaim, is set to join an ensemble cast that already represents one of the most significant call sheets in recent Hollywood history. His involvement in the production, officially titled Miami Vice 85, marks another milestone in a project that aims to blend the neon-soaked nostalgia of the original series with the cinematic scale of modern blockbuster filmmaking.
A Production of Massive Scope and Scale
The project is currently spearheaded by director Joseph Kosinski, a filmmaker who has redefined the technical standards of action cinema with the massive success of Top Gun: Maverick and the high-octane racing feature F1. Kosinski’s vision for the film focuses on the mid-1980s era, specifically drawing inspiration from the tone and aesthetic of the original pilot episode created by Anthony Yerkovich. The film is designed to capture the duality of Miami during that period: a city defined by both immense glamour and deep-seated systemic corruption.
For this iteration, the leading roles—originally inhabited by Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas—have been filled by Michael B. Jordan as Ricardo Tubbs and Austin Butler as James Crockett. The production is scheduled to commence principal photography in November, with filming locations split between New York City and the coastal backdrop of Miami. Universal Pictures has set a long-range release date for May 19, 2028, signaling the studio’s commitment to a high-end, premium theatrical experience. Notably, the film is being shot specifically for IMAX, reflecting a trend toward large-format presentation for major intellectual property revivals.
The Evolution of the Miami Vice Franchise
The original Miami Vice series, which debuted on NBC in 1984, was a cultural phenomenon that fundamentally altered the relationship between television and popular music, fashion, and cinematography. Its use of pastels, high-speed boats, and a synth-heavy soundtrack made it an emblem of the decade. Following the series’ conclusion in 1989, the property saw a notable big-screen adaptation in 2006, directed by Michael Mann. That iteration took a gritty, somber approach to the material, focusing on the psychological toll of deep-cover police work.
The upcoming 2028 film, Miami Vice 85, appears to be positioning itself as a stylistic bridge—a modernization that respects the vibrant, propulsive energy of the original series while utilizing contemporary advancements in cinematography. The involvement of producer Dylan Clark, known for his work on the grounded and critically lauded The Batman, suggests that this version will prioritize narrative depth and atmosphere, ensuring the film is not merely a superficial reboot but a substantive exploration of the era.
Edi Gathegi’s Ascendant Career Trajectory
Edi Gathegi’s casting is seen by industry analysts as a strategic move to bolster the film’s supporting ensemble with a performer capable of balancing intensity and charm. Gathegi’s performance in James Gunn’s Superman demonstrated his ability to command a scene within an ensemble, earning praise for his "cool under pressure" demeanor. This reputation is expected to serve him well in his role as a small-time crook whose ambitions lead him into a situation far more dangerous than he anticipated.
Gathegi’s filmography provides a roadmap of a career built on versatility. Beyond his recent DC Universe appearances, he has maintained a consistent presence in high-profile projects, including the Western The Harder They Fall, the superhero franchise X-Men: First Class, and the Twilight saga. His presence as a series regular on the acclaimed Apple TV+ science fiction series For All Mankind further illustrates his ability to anchor long-form storytelling. His representation, handled by IAG and Yorn Levine, has successfully navigated these diverse roles, positioning him as a reliable and dynamic fixture in major studio productions.
The Ensemble: A Casting Masterclass
The breadth of the cast assembled for Miami Vice 85 is noteworthy, reflecting a deliberate effort to capture different segments of the audience. Alongside Jordan, Butler, and Gathegi, the call sheet includes Alden Ehrenreich, Whitney Peak, Camila Morrone, Danny Ramirez, John Leguizamo, and Andrew Schulz.
The diversity of this roster—ranging from dramatic heavyweights to breakout stars of streaming hits—suggests that the film will rely heavily on interpersonal chemistry. In the context of a procedural reboot, where the relationship between the two leads is the primary engine of the plot, the supporting cast is essential in building the world of 1980s Miami. The addition of established character actors like Leguizamo and Gathegi provides the necessary grit to contrast with the high-gloss aesthetic of the lead detectives.
Economic and Industry Implications
The decision to film for IMAX and the extended lead time before the 2028 release date highlights the shifting economics of the theatrical window. By positioning the film as an "event" release, Universal Pictures is banking on the combination of the Miami Vice brand recognition and the current "star power" of its lead actors.
From an industry perspective, the success of this film will likely depend on its ability to satisfy a dual audience: those who harbor nostalgia for the original series and younger demographics who are increasingly drawn to "prestige" action films. The 2028 release date suggests a carefully managed production schedule, allowing for extensive post-production and potential visual effects work, which is standard for films utilizing the IMAX format.
Analysis: Why Now for Miami Vice?
The return of Miami Vice is part of a broader industry trend toward revitalizing properties from the 1980s and 1990s. However, the specific choice of the 1985 setting implies a desire to lean into the period’s aesthetic history rather than attempting to update the story to the present day. This approach mitigates the risk of the "fish out of water" trope often found in modern reboots. By keeping the setting in the 80s, the filmmakers can utilize the original source material’s iconography—the fashion, the music, and the specific socio-political climate—as a foundational narrative tool rather than a nostalgic gimmick.
Furthermore, the involvement of Joseph Kosinski, whose directorial style is characterized by a "propulsive" rhythm and high technical precision, suggests that the film will prioritize action choreography. Given that the original show was noted for its groundbreaking cinematography, this new version is likely to set a high bar for visual presentation, potentially influencing how future television-to-film adaptations are approached by major studios.
Conclusion: A Project of High Expectation
As the production moves toward its November start date, the industry will be watching closely to see how this ensemble cast coalesces. The inclusion of Edi Gathegi adds a layer of narrative intrigue, providing a grounded, human element to the high-stakes world of undercover police work. With a robust team behind the camera and a cast that combines emerging stars with established talent, Miami Vice 85 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated titles on Universal’s long-term slate. The success of this project will likely determine whether the 1980s television revival trend continues to find traction in the late 2020s, or if it marks a final, definitive iteration of a cultural touchstone.
