New behind-the-scenes footage reveals that Tom Cruise is once again risking everything for the upcoming Mission: Impossible: Final Reckoning. At 62, the actor has built a formidable reputation for performing his own daring stunts, which have become a signature element of the franchise. In a dramatic moment captured from thousands of feet up, Cruise can be seen dangling from a helicopter before making a thrilling backward jump towards the earth.

Paramount Pictures recently released a video on their YouTube channel showcasing this heart-stopping stunt. Utilising a Snorricam—a camera rig that attaches to the actor—viewers are treated not only to the skyward leaps of Cruise but also to the meticulous preparations that unfolded before the jump. In the footage, the star discusses altitude and speed with his crew, stating, “We’re going to go to 10,000 but if we can get 12,000, we’ll go 20 knots forward.” He expresses a desire to push himself to the limits, eager to determine how well he can recover from a ‘worst-case scenario’.

Such extreme stunts are par for the course in this film series, which has seen Cruise defy gravity in various jaw-dropping ways across previous installments. In addition to the breathtaking helicopter scene, reports indicate that Cruise performs a range of high-risk underwater stunts for the film, including sequences filmed in an 8.5 million-litre tank. Director Christopher McQuarrie has praised Cruise’s physical prowess and dedication to authenticity, which he claims elevates the film’s overall spectacle.

The stakes in Final Reckoning are higher than ever for Cruise’s character, Ethan Hunt. Following an intense cliffhanger in the previous film, audiences are anticipating how Hunt will navigate new threats all while confronting personal betrayals within his team. This latest edition has faced multiple delays but is now set to grace cinema screens on May 23, 2025.

Ahead of its release, early screenings have generated buzz among critics. Observers have called it ‘astonishing’, with some declaring it ‘the action film of the summer’. Critic Anthony Gagliardi remarked, “Tom Cruise defies all odds with jaw-dropping action built only for IMAX,” while Fandango’s Erik Davis described it as “the biggest, wildest, and most consequential Mission movie yet.” Despite some critiques about pacing, the overall reception has leaned positively, celebrating Cruise’s relentless pursuit of innovation in action cinema.

While this film was initially marketed as the concluding chapter of the long-running franchise, hints from Cruise have suggested there may be more to come. His involvement in the franchise began nearly three decades ago, driven by a vision to revolutionise the action genre. “It was about looking at Mission and thinking, ‘What can we do with action?’” Cruise explained. His continuous investment in action sequences and storytelling signifies an evolving ambition, solidifying his place as a leading figure in action filmmaking.

In addition to the aerial thrills and underwater escapades, fans can also expect cameo appearances from franchise stalwarts like Simon Pegg, Hayley Atwell, Vanessa Kirby, and Ving Rhames. As the film approaches its release, it promises not only commercial success but also a testament to Cruise’s unyielding commitment to pushing the limits of both his physical capabilities and cinematic storytelling.

Finally, Cruise’s upcoming appearance at the Cannes Film Festival alongside McQuarrie serves as a valuable platform for promoting the film, adding to the excitement surrounding its premiere. As the countdown continues, the anticipation for Mission: Impossible: Final Reckoning intensifies, embodying the thrilling spectacle and audacious creativity that fans have come to expect.

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Source: Noah Wire Services