Production on Universal Pictures’ upcoming crime thriller Miami Vice ’85 has moved to New Jersey, offering fans a first visual glimpse of Emmy nominee Walton Goggins in character. Set photos shared on social media platform X capture Goggins filming on location in Wayne, New Jersey, where parts of the Preakness Shopping Center have been transformed to resemble mid-1980s Miami.
In the newly surfaced images, Goggins embraces a distinctively retro aesthetic. He is seen wearing yellow-tinted sunglasses, a printed open-collar shirt, pleated pants, a leather belt, and loafers. Industry reports indicate that Goggins plays an assassin henchman working as an associate to a cartel leader portrayed by John Leguizamo. While the set photos showcase his flamboyant 1980s wardrobe, they do not disclose further specifics regarding his exact role or narrative arc in the film.
Building the World of 1985 Miami in New Jersey
The production transformed an empty strip mall in Wayne, New Jersey, into a sun-drenched Miami street almost overnight starting in early October. Crews brought in palm trees and constructed authentic period shopfronts-including a video rental store, a VCR repair shop, a menswear boutique, an ice cream shop, and a liquor store-fully stocked with period-accurate merchandise. Classic 1980s vehicles and police cars have also been staged in the parking lot to complete the atmospheric illusion.
Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for blockbuster hits like Top Gun: Maverick and F1, Miami Vice ’85 draws direct inspiration from the pilot episode and first season of the landmark 1984-90 NBC television series created by Anthony Yerkovich and executive produced by Michael Mann. The upcoming film aims to capture the vibrant, stylized neon aesthetic and high-fashion swagger of the original television run, distancing itself from the gritty realism of Michael Mann’s 2006 feature film adaptation.
Star-Studded Cast and Release Date
Goggins and Leguizamo join a massive ensemble cast anchored by Michael B. Jordan as Ricardo Tubbs and Austin Butler as James “Sonny” Crockett. The film’s expansive roster also features Alden Ehrenreich, Whitney Peak, Camila Morrone, Danny Ramirez, Dominic Sessa, Haley Lu Richardson, Andrew Schulz, Edi Gathegi, André Holland, and Michael Irby.
The screenplay was penned by Dan Gilroy, utilizing an earlier draft written by Eric Warren Singer. Kosinski is producing the project alongside Dylan Clark through Dylan Clark Productions. Principal photography began in October, with the production capturing footage for IMAX. Universal Pictures has slated Miami Vice ’85 for a major theatrical release on May 19, 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami Vice ’85
When is Miami Vice ’85 scheduled to release in theaters?
Universal Pictures has scheduled Miami Vice ’85 for a theatrical release on May 19, 2028.
Who are the main stars of Miami Vice ’85?
Michael B. Jordan stars as Ricardo Tubbs and Austin Butler stars as James “Sonny” Crockett, taking over the iconic roles originally played by Philip Michael Thomas and Don Johnson.
What role does Walton Goggins play in the film?
Walton Goggins portrays an assassin henchman and associate to the primary villain, a cartel kingpin played by John Leguizamo.
Where is Miami Vice ’85 being filmed?
Although the story is set in Miami, principal photography has taken place on location in regions including New York and New Jersey, where a strip mall in Wayne, New Jersey, was dressed to look like 1985 Miami.
Who is directing the movie?
Joseph Kosinski, celebrated for his work on Top Gun: Maverick and F1, is directing the film from a screenplay by Dan Gilroy.
