Tom Cruise Bids Farewell to “Mission: Impossible” at Cannes
Tom Cruise made a stunning exit from the “Mission: Impossible” franchise at the Cannes Film Festival, where his latest film, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” received a five-minute ovation. The acclaim is largely attributed to Cruise’s dedication to executing exhilarating and dangerous stunts. The event featured a grand 40-piece orchestra that played the franchise’s legendary theme as guests entered the theater.
The Audience Reaction
While the audience appreciated the film’s impressive visuals, some viewers appeared tired due to the lengthy runtime. During the action-packed climax, a few attendees chose to leave the Palais.
Unexpected Revelations
Despite extensive coverage of Cruise’s fearless commitment to the franchise, the Cannes audience was taken aback by his audacious portrayal in the film.
Stunts and Costumes
The 62-year-old star engaged in a three-minute knife fight aboard a submarine, donning only minimal boxer briefs, which extended to part of an astonishing underwater sequence. For a leading actor in his fourth decade of work, the appeal was undeniable.
Standing Ovation and Gratitude
During the standing ovation, Cruise expressed heartfelt thanks, nodding gratefully while sharing the moment with director Christopher McQuarrie and guests Zoe Saldaña and Marco Perego-Saldaña. The extensive applause included visual acknowledgments of the impressive cast, which featured Simon Pegg, Angela Bassett, and Hayley Atwell.
Director’s Praise
In his speech, McQuarrie highlighted the audience’s support, stating, “This response is why we do it. The big screen experience is why we do it.” He praised the extraordinary cast, who worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic and industry strikes. “This film would not be possible without their hard work,” he remarked.
Looking Ahead
Cruise and Paramount hope “The Final Reckoning” can replicate the success of “Top Gun: Maverick,” which dazzled Cannes last year, earning $1.46 billion globally. In contrast, Cruise’s last “Mission: Impossible” release, “Dead Reckoning Part One,” grossed $571 million, a decline from “Fallout”’s $791 million. The upcoming film, featuring returning favorites and new faces, is set to hit theaters on May 23.
