American actor and producer Tom Cruise was born in Syracuse, New York, on July 3, 1962. For many years, he has been one of Hollywood's most well-known and prosperous actors, earning praise for his adaptability, powerful acting, and captivating on-screen persona. With parts in movies like "Top Gun" (1986) and "Risky Business" (1983), Cruise's career took off in the 1980s and he became a leading man in the business. He maintained his success in the ensuing decades, playing a variety of parts that demonstrated his versatility in action, drama, and science fiction. A few of Tom Cruise's most well-known performances are Joel Goodsen in "Risky Business," Ron Kovic in "Born on the Fourth of July" (1989), Jerry Maguire in "Jerry Maguire" (1996), and Ethan Hunt in the "Mission: Impossible" film series. Cruise is renowned for his commitment to pulling off his own stunts, frequently going above and beyond the call of action movie production. By means of his production company, Cruise/Wagner Productions, Cruise has not only acted in many films but also produced many of them. Over his career, he has been nominated for and won multiple awards, including three Golden Globes. Even with his sporadic personal scandals, Tom Cruise is still a very powerful and lucrative star in the film industry. Let us explore her delightful journey within the Hollywood industry. Here're Top 10 movies of Tom Cruise:
1. MAGNOLIA (1999): In a departure from his typical leading roles, Tom Cruise chose to delve into a supporting character in Paul Thomas Anderson's sprawling "Magnolia." This Altmanesque film intricately intertwines the quests for happiness among diverse individuals in the San Fernando Valley. Cruise embodies the role of Frank Mackey, a self-help guru shrouded in a complex tapestry of closely guarded family mysteries. Cruise's nuanced portrayal garnered him a remarkable third Golden Globe, his third Oscar nomination, and dual nominations from the Screen Actors Guild. Recognition came in the form of a nomination for Best Ensemble and another for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying Cruise's versatility and prowess in this unconventional cinematic venture.
2. Minority Report (2002): Only twice in their careers have Tom Cruise and Steven Spielberg worked together on science fiction projects, and both of those movies rank among the darkest of each director's body of work. From Spielberg's intense directing to Cruise's nuanced performance—and a remarkable cameo by then-newcomer Colin Farrell—this one is a winner all around. Even the film's world-building, which imagines a society in which all forms of surveillance—including advertising—are ubiquitous and omniscient, seemed to foresee a lot of what is going on in our modern world. Aside from one of Spielberg's infamously tacked-on "happy" endings, which is the only drawback in an otherwise excellent collaboration, it's an immersive, kinetic thriller.
3. Collateral (2004): In a nihilistic turn, Tom Cruise takes on the role of Vincent, embodying perhaps the most extensive onscreen killing spree of his career. Vincent is portrayed as an empathy-free killing machine, marking a stark departure from the redemption arcs common in Cruise's other character portrayals. This monstrous character, void of any redeeming qualities, showcases Cruise's ability to subvert expectations and explore the depths of his acting range. Vincent stands out as a sociopathic figure, a departure from any character Cruise has played before or since, making this film one of his most distinctive and finest works. The portrayal of such a morally complex and unapologetically dark character adds a layer of complexity to Cruise's filmography, demonstrating his willingness to take on roles that defy conventional expectations.
4. WAR OF THE WORLDS (2005): "War of the Worlds," a 2005 sci-fi spectacle helmed by Steven Spielberg and featuring Tom Cruise, brings H.G. Wells' timeless novel to life in contemporary America. The film unfolds a gripping narrative of an alien invasion and humanity's fight for survival. Tom Cruise takes on the role of Ray Ferrier, a divorced dockworker in New Jersey, unexpectedly thrust into the role of hero when extraterrestrial invaders, armed with formidable war machines, unleash a devastating assault on Earth. Navigating the chaos, Ray endeavors to shield his children in the face of widespread destruction. This cinematic adaptation stands out in the sci-fi realm, seamlessly merging pulse-pounding action with poignant storytelling, solidifying its status as a noteworthy entry in the genre.
5. TROPIC THUNDER (2008): Cruise has occasionally faced accusations of lacking a sense of humor about himself and his work. However, his role in "Tropic Thunder" defies such claims in a significant manner. In what can be described as a glorified cameo, Cruise appears as an obese, bald, and thoroughly repulsive studio executive named Les Grossman, who oversees the production of the film within the film, "Tropic Thunder." This portrayal marks a departure from Cruise's usual cautious demeanor in public interviews. Witnessing him unleash a barrage of obscenities, a stark contrast to his typical public persona, is both liberating and genuinely amusing. Although his role in the film is relatively modest, its impact is undeniable, earning Cruise his seventh Golden Globe nomination. This unexpected comedic turn showcases Cruise's versatility and willingness to embrace unconventional roles.
6. EDGE OF TOMORROW (2014): In a sci-fi action film directed by Doug Liman, Tom Cruise garnered his best reviews in over a decade, presenting a narrative reminiscent of "Groundhog Day" set in the midst of intense battle. The storyline unfolds in a future where Earth is under alien invasion, and Cruise's character, Maj. Bill Cage, initially serves as a public relations specialist thrust into the front lines of combat. To little surprise, he meets an untimely demise almost immediately. The cycle continues as Cage returns to battle, meets his demise again, and learns something new in the subsequent loop. Aptly captured by the film's tagline, it's a process of "Live, Die, Repeat." This clever premise is executed with finesse, showcasing commendable performances by both Cruise and Blunt. The film's engaging plot, combined with the actors' strong portrayals, contributes to its critical acclaim and marks a noteworthy return to form for Cruise in the sci-fi genre.
8. MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - FALLOUT (2018): "Mission: Impossible - Fallout" is a 2018 action spy film directed by Christopher McQuarrie and starring Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt. It is the sixth installment in the "Mission: Impossible" film series and is known for its high-octane action sequences, intricate plot, and Tom Cruise's daring stunts. "Mission: Impossible - Fallout" received widespread critical acclaim for its thrilling action set pieces, well-executed plot, and Tom Cruise's commitment to performing his own stunts. The film is particularly notable for the jaw-dropping helicopter chase sequence and the intense bathroom fight scene. It became one of the highest-grossing and best-reviewed entries in the franchise, solidifying the "Mission: Impossible" series as a benchmark for action-packed spy films.
9. TOP GUN: MAVERICK (2022): Three and a half decades after the original "Top Gun," Tom Cruise leads the sequel, which has emerged as one of the most acclaimed blockbusters in recent years. Reprising his role as test pilot Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, Cruise navigates the challenges of a stellar career tainted by insubordination, preventing him from earning a well-deserved promotion. The film delves into Maverick's complex relationships, including a poignant reunion with former rival Ice (a compelling Val Kilmer), whose vengeful son Rooster (Miles Teller) joins Maverick's cadre of students. Cruise's portrayal of Maverick is a blend of high-spirited energy and contemplative depth, resulting in one of his standout performances. The sequel not only pays homage to the original but also propels the character into a new chapter, showcasing Cruise's enduring charisma and acting prowess.
10. Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One (2023): Tom Cruise's "Dead Reckoning Part One" adds another exhilarating chapter to the action-packed "Mission Impossible" film series. Brimming with excitement, the movie boasts a thrilling climax, a captivating McGuffin, and a suspenseful plot centered around a crucial AI key. While the pace may be measured, the film compensates with gripping action sequences. Hayley Atwell's portrayal of Grace adds a new dynamic, intensifying the pressure on Ethan Hunt and his team. Cruise's impressive running antics aside, his unwavering commitment to performing most stunts allows the fighting choreography to shine. The enduring success of the franchise is a testament to Cruise and McQuarrie's dedication to delivering action-packed blockbusters that captivate audiences with each installment.
