It seems like yesterday when the news broke out about Tom Cruise passionately reprimanding his crew members during the shooting of Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One in the UK. His frustration stemmed from the crew members’ disregard for COVID-19 protocols. Cruise’s response was not just about one movie’s safety measures but was indicative of his deeply rooted concern about the entire film industry in these challenging times.
In the midst of ongoing challenges, the legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg publicly acknowledged Cruise’s pivotal role in breathing life back into Hollywood with the box office triumph of Top Gun: Maverick. Cruise’s heroic efforts were not limited to just his own movies. As the box office grapples to restore its pre-pandemic glory, Cruise is actively promoting the traditional theatergoing experience. He is urging audiences to support not just his films but also other big summer titles like Barbie and Oppenheimer, showcasing his firm belief in the communal experience of cinema.
Mission: Impossible – Return & Impact
Cruise’s on-screen persona is legendary and is marked by a palpable tenacity that few can match. At 61, he continues to challenge himself by performing his own stunts, maintaining his status as a daring Hollywood star. In the seventh edition of Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One, his commitment to authenticity shines as he performs hair-raising stunts, keeping CGI usage at a minimum, a rare occurrence in today’s heavily digitalized movie landscape.
In Dead Reckoning Part One, audiences are treated to some extraordinary action sequences featuring Ethan Hunt. Whether it’s navigating the winding streets of Rome in a compact yellow Fiat, courageously riding a motorcycle off a cliff, or surviving a near-death experience during a disastrous train derailment, Cruise delivers heart-stopping action, further raising the bar of the franchise.
Storyline of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One
Reflecting the contemporary global concern about AI and its potential misuse, the film introduces a formidable adversary – a self-aware AI known as the Entity. Hunt, leading the IMF, is resolved to obliterate the Entity before it becomes too powerful or ends up in the hands of unscrupulous individuals. The narrative seamlessly intertwines reality and fiction, providing an exciting, thought-provoking cinematic experience.
An intriguing aspect of the film is the return of Eugene Kittridge, Hunt’s former boss, played by the charismatic Henry Czerny. Kittridge, always with a sinister aura around him, warns Hunt to align with the U.S. government’s intention to control the Entity and the imminent new world order, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.
Christopher McQuarrie’s Direction & Writing
Christopher McQuarrie, who has helmed the franchise since Rogue Nation, expertly brings his directorial vision and writing prowess to Dead Reckoning Part One. While moving the franchise forward, he cleverly pays homage to the 1996 original. The narrative highlights Ethan Hunt’s formative trauma, allowing audiences to understand why Hunt relentlessly puts his life on the line for his friends across the series.
A Look at the Cast
Dead Reckoning Part One brings back series regulars such as Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, and Rebecca Ferguson who have become familiar faces for the franchise fans. Vanessa Kirby returns with a stunning performance as a ruthless arms dealer, delivering an unforgettable performance.
The film introduces fresh faces that add new dimensions to the story. Hayley Atwell impresses as a shrewd thief whose interactions with Hunt add a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse. Pom Klementieff also steals scenes as a mysterious assassin, adding more intrigue to the plot.
Movie Experience & Length
Even though Dead Reckoning Part One boasts a considerable runtime, the narrative remains gripping throughout. McQuarrie demonstrates his prowess as a screenwriter by balancing moments of tension and release, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The film presents a wonderful blend of old-school craftsmanship and modern-day gadgetry.
In a refreshing take, Hunt tackles danger with an unexpected lightness and humor, bringing comic relief to tense moments. This playful approach serves as a testament to Cruise’s acting range and charisma.
Tom Cruise: Savior of Hollywood?
There is no doubt that Cruise’s dedication to his craft and his mission to revive the film industry are commendable. Whether he will single-handedly succeed in rescuing the industry remains to be seen. However, his efforts and stellar performances are already breathing life back into Hollywood, making his journey a spectacle worth watching.
Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One Review
Overall
Summary
The film sees the return of Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt, who once again delivers a riveting performance, impressively performing his own high-octane stunts. The plot, although fantastical, is intriguing, presenting an AI entity as the villain. The ensemble cast of familiar faces and newcomers deliver strong performances, contributing to the engaging storyline and the film’s intense action sequences.