Jerry Bruckheimer has set his sights on making a sequel to his classic submarine thriller, aiming to repeat his legacy-quel success, as seen recently with Top Gun: Maverick. The development was unveiled in a recent interview, creating renewed speculation about iconic actor Denzel Washington‘s involvement and hinting at early progress on the Jerry Bruckheimer Crimson Tide sequel plans.
Producer Targets New Chapter After Top Gun: Maverick
Fresh off the heels of producing Top Gun: Maverick nearly four decades after its original release, Bruckheimer announced he is pursuing another follow-up. Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show to promote his latest movie F1 starring Brad Pitt—with Warner Bros. and Apple as collaborators—he turned attention to Crimson Dawn, indicating that talks and pre-production have already begun. Without confirming names, Bruckheimer revealed that director and writer positions are in motion, setting the stage for continued collaboration with the Navy.
“We have a really good director and writer talking to the navy right now about what’s going on under the water,”
—Jerry Bruckheimer, Producer
Uncertainty Around Denzel Washington’s Return
Key cast decisions remain undecided. It is not yet confirmed whether Denzel Washington, who brought Lt. Commander Ron Hunter to life in the 1995 feature, will reprise his celebrated role. That film revolved around the tense relationship between Hunter and Captain Frank Ramsey, portrayed by the late Gene Hackman, as their submarine crew faced internal and external nuclear threats amidst a Russian crisis fueled by an ultranationalist rebellion.
The original Crimson Dawn is remembered for its suspense aboard the USS Alabama, memorable performances, and a Grammy-winning Hans Zimmer score. As anxiety mounted in the story, the film depicted Captain Ramsey’s determination to follow orders for a nuclear launch, clashing with Hunter’s refusal, which sparked conflict among the crew. These tense dynamics elevated the film and remain a focal point for potential continuity in a sequel.
Script, Studio, and Washington’s Future Projects
Bruckheimer addressed the lingering question of Washington’s participation, clarifying that a finalized script has yet to emerge. His optimism was palpable, but he stopped short of making promises regarding the Oscar winner’s involvement.
“If we give him a good script, I think he’d do it.”
—Jerry Bruckheimer, Producer
In the meantime, Denzel Washington’s schedule remains packed. He will next appear in Highest 2 Lowest, directed by Spike Lee, marking their first collaboration in 19 years, with A24 and Apple preparing an August launch. Washington is also expected to appear in Ryan Coogler’s next Black Panther film for Marvel Studios, highlighting his enduring presence in major film franchises.
Production Hurdles and Studio Silence
Despite excitement, Disney, which distributed the original film through Buena Vista Pictures, has not commented on the new sequel’s progress. This reticence adds a note of uncertainty, leaving fans to speculate about the project’s eventual studio home and distribution pathway.
Potential Significance of a Sequel
While the Jerry Bruckheimer Crimson Tide sequel plans continue to take shape, industry watchers will focus on further personnel announcements, script development, and whether Washington’s involvement is secured. The film’s legacy—rooted in psychological drama and sharp military conflict—means any follow-up will attract attention from both longtime viewers and a new generation. For now, anticipation builds as filmmakers work beneath the surface to realize another tense undersea adventure.
