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Tom Cruise has consistently pushed boundaries in Hollywood, and his latest project, the upcoming installment of the acclaimed Mission Impossible franchise, is no exception. The actor shared insights about filming the movie, titled The Final Reckoning, due to hit theaters in May.
In a recent interview with Empire, Cruise spoke candidly about the extreme nature of the stunts he performed. One particularly jaw-dropping scene involves the actor gripping onto a 1930s biplane as it soars through the sky. True to his daring approach, Cruise performed this scene without a stunt double.
Intense Stunt Training Required
“When you stick your face out, going over 120 to 130 miles an hour, you’re not getting oxygen,” Cruise explained regarding the adrenaline-pumping moment. He emphasized the rigorous training he undertook to manage his breathing during such high-speed scenes. At times, he struggled so significantly that he passed out and could not return to the cockpit.
Christopher McQuarrie, the film’s writer and director, praised Cruise’s extraordinary efforts. He noted, “There are stunts in this movie that will melt your brain.” McQuarrie added that there were days in Africa where Cruise executed stunts that surpassed anything he had done previously, highlighting the risks and intensity involved.
Discussing another suspenseful scene, McQuarrie stated, “I truly want to puke thinking about the stress. It was intense.” This acknowledgment of stress and danger underscores the commitment to authenticity in the film’s action sequences.
HALO Jump Challenges
In addition to the biplane stunt, the filming faced challenges during a HALO jump previously featured in 2018’s Mission Impossible – Fallout. HALO, which stands for High Altitude Low Opening, involves jumping from an aircraft at altitudes between 25,000 and 40,000 feet with a parachute deployed only moments before landing. This technique is typical of military special forces but poses significant risks due to low oxygen levels at such heights.
To ensure his safety while executing this stunt, Cruise used a specialized helmet that served as both an oxygen mask and a windshield. He explained the complexities surrounding the stunt: “The aircraft is going between these C-17s at speeds between 160 and 200 miles an hour, so we had to find a way to exit the plane.” He described how they filmed only one take per day, requiring intense preparation and focus.
Ultimately, the crew performed over 100 takes to capture the perfect shot, indicating the high level of precision Cruise demanded for his performance.
Filming Faced Setbacks
Business Insider revealed that the HALO jump almost did not come to fruition. The Royal Air Force initially deemed it unsafe, proposing a lower jump altitude instead. Cruise’s determination shone through as he insisted on executing the stunt at 25,000 feet. However, the producers faced logistical challenges, threatening an alternate route that would not involve filming the jump at the desired height.
Eventually, after Cruise sustained an injury which delayed production, the team was able to film the stunning sequence in Abu Dhabi when the opportunity with the RAF arose.
This backstory not only illustrates the physical and emotional demands placed on Cruise but also reflects his unwavering commitment to authenticity in all his projects.
The Legacy of Action
As Tom Cruise prepares for the release of The Final Reckoning, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing yet another chapter in the Mission Impossible legacy. Known for performing his stunts, his dedication adds a unique element to the franchise, delivering heart-stopping action and unforgettable moments.
With high-octane sequences confidently unveiling new heights of danger, Cruise continues to defy expectations. His resilience inspires admiration, earning him the status of one of Hollywood’s most committed actors. As the film’s release approaches, audiences are left wondering what extraordinary feats will unfold on screen next.
Whether soaring through the skies or completing adrenaline-fueled challenges, Tom Cruise has proven time and again that he is not afraid to push the limits. The upcoming Mission Impossible film promises to deliver the exhilarating experience audiences have come to expect from this iconic series, reinforcing Cruise’s enduring legacy in action cinema.
As new previews and teasers emerge, the anticipation only grows stronger for this remarkable addition to the franchise. Prepare for an action-packed adventure filled with breathtaking stunts as The Final Reckoning takes flight.