In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Cary Elwes shared a memorable behind-the-scenes moment from the set of the 1990 racing film Days of Thunder. The story involves none other than Tom Cruise, who reportedly crashed his car on the very first day of driving — and his last words before impact were both humorous and iconic.
“Tom put a car in the wall, actually, on his first day of driving, you know, and these things are not cheap,” Elwes said. “And he was so funny on film. His last words before crashing were, ‘Hello, wall.’” The anecdote highlights the lightheartedness that Cruise maintained even during moments of high intensity on set.
Background on Days of Thunder
Directed by Tony Scott, Days of Thunder was a high-octane NASCAR drama that followed the story of a young, ambitious race car driver named Cole Trickle, played by Tom Cruise. The film also starred Nicole Kidman as Dr. Claire Lewicki, a neurosurgeon who becomes romantically involved with Trickle. The movie was a commercial success and is remembered for its thrilling race sequences and the real-life romance that blossomed between Cruise and Kidman.
Production took place at various locations, including Daytona International Speedway in Florida, where much of the authentic racing atmosphere was captured. The cast underwent rigorous training to realistically portray professional drivers, with many performing their own stunts. This dedication to realism often led to unexpected moments, as Cruise’s crash demonstrates.
Tom Cruise's Dedication to Stunts
Tom Cruise is famously known for performing his own stunts in films such as the Mission: Impossible series. His commitment to authenticity was already apparent during Days of Thunder. Before production began, Cruise spent months training with professional NASCAR drivers, learning the nuances of stock car racing. He even obtained a racing license. This preparation, however, did not prevent an early mishap when he first got behind the wheel of a purpose-built race car.
Elwes noted that despite the crash, Cruise maintained a professional and supportive attitude on set. “He's a terrific guy. He really is so fun to work with, so, so professional and so supportive of everybody,” Elwes, now 63, said. “He's a terrific guy. He really is so fun to work with, so, so professional and so supportive of everybody.” This sentiment is echoed by many who have worked with Cruise over the years.
Learning to Drive NASCAR Under Tony Scott's Direction
Elwes, who played a rival driver named Russ Wheeler in the film, also recalled the unconventional direction he received from Tony Scott. On his first day, Scott told him: “Okay, here's what you need to do when you get up to speed. I want you to take the wheel with your knees, and then I want you to flip on each of the cameras, grab the wheel again, and then when they're switched on, take the wheel with your knees again, and then clap each camera.” Elwes was shocked and asked if Scott was joking. “No, no, no, that's what we're gonna do,” Scott replied. Elwes thought it was nuts but ultimately complied, noting that it turned out to be “great fun” and they “had such a great time.”
The Chemistry on Set
The film benefited from strong chemistry among its cast, which also included Michael Rooker, John C. Reilly, and Randy Quaid. Cruise and Kidman met during filming and married later in 1990, though they divorced in 2001. Kidman has since reflected on her natural curly hair in the movie, telling Allure in 2023: “I love my hair there. That is my natural hair. Isn't that crazy? So, little girls out there, embrace the curl. Do not follow in my steps and straighten your hair.” She noted the high humidity in Florida contributed to her wild hairstyle.
The Impact of Days of Thunder
Despite mixed critical reviews, Days of Thunder has maintained a cult following over the decades. It was one of the early films to showcase Cruise's leading man charisma and his willingness to take physical risks. The movie also boosted interest in NASCAR racing among mainstream audiences and paved the way for later racing films like Talladega Nights and Ford v Ferrari.
The behind-the-scenes stories, such as the one shared by Elwes, offer a glimpse into the adrenaline-filled production. The crash, though costly, became a fond memory for the cast. Elwes' admiration for Cruise remains high, and he continues to speak warmly about their time together on the project. For fans of both actors, the anecdote provides a rare, humanizing look at one of Hollywood's biggest stars during a moment of vulnerability — a crash that could have been a disaster but instead became a cherished story of camaraderie and laughter on set.
Source: MSN News