Tom Cruise is often hailed as the “last great movie star” and credited with “saving the film industry” during the pandemic, but according to one of the UK’s most respected actors of the past 30 years, he remains “underrated” as an actor. That actor is none other than Kenneth Branagh, who shared the screen with Cruise in Valkyrie (2008). Branagh believes that despite Cruise’s massive fame, his full potential as an actor has yet to be fully realized.
While Tom Cruise has become a global icon, his ties to the UK are also significant. The legendary actor is set to receive an honorary award for his contributions to British cinema from the British Film Institute (BFI). This honor will recognize his impact on the UK film industry over the past four decades, with films ranging from Legend (1985) to Eyes Wide Shut (1999), and the more recent blockbuster Mission: Impossible franchise.
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A Well-Deserved Honor from the BFI
Tom Cruise will soon be awarded the prestigious BFI Fellowship, the highest distinction given by the BFI. This honor acknowledges the extraordinary contributions of an actor or producer who has significantly impacted British cinema. Cruise’s work in the UK, spanning decades and featuring films shot on British soil, has undoubtedly helped bring millions of pounds into the country’s film industry. His collaborations with a variety of directors have added to his international fame and have been integral in shaping British cinema.
Kenneth Branagh, who starred alongside Cruise in Valkyrie, praised the actor’s talents in an interview with The Times (via Deadline). While Branagh recognized Cruise’s immense success, he also pointed out that the four-time Oscar nominee is still “underrated” and that his “golden age” as a performer might still be ahead of him. Branagh went on to say that although Cruise is known for his action-packed roles in films like Mission: Impossible and Top Gun, there is much more to his acting than just stunts and box-office hits.
An Actor Who Has Much More to Offer
“If he ever tires of impressing the world with his action films, he will surprise those who only think of him as a movie star,” Branagh said. “What he has done with Mission and Top Gun is unique: cinematic entertainment with a clear intention of giving you a great time at the movies. But he is an underrated actor, and the golden age of his performances is still ahead of him.”
Kenneth Branagh’s assessment of Cruise as an actor is more nuanced than simply acknowledging his action star status. Branagh believes that Cruise is capable of much more, and that as his career evolves, he could deliver even more powerful performances. His talents are not limited to thrilling action scenes but extend to the depth and complexity that can emerge in more dramatic roles.
A Natural in British Pubs: Tom Cruise’s Down-to-Earth Nature
Branagh also shared a glimpse of the kind of person Tom Cruise is off-screen. Despite his superstar status, Cruise has always remained humble and approachable, even in the UK. Branagh mentioned that Cruise has often been spotted in traditional British pubs, where he enjoys a quiet corner and the local atmosphere. “He finds a quiet corner, enjoys the ambiance, and is always courteous when spotted,” Branagh recalled. “He’s a natural joker, and he takes such joy in what he does, it’s contagious.”
Cruise’s down-to-earth nature has endeared him to many in the UK, where he has worked with several renowned filmmakers over the years. His collaborations include directors like Ridley Scott (Legend), Stanley Kubrick (Eyes Wide Shut), Neil Jordan (Interview with the Vampire), and Doug Liman (Edge of Tomorrow). His long-time partnership with Christopher McQuarrie has resulted in successful films in the Mission: Impossible series and Top Gun: Maverick (2022).
A Storied Career and Continuing Impact
As Cruise’s contributions to the UK film industry continue to be celebrated, he remains dedicated to his craft. In response to receiving the BFI Fellowship, Cruise expressed his gratitude: “I am truly honored. I’ve been making films in the UK for over 40 years, and I have no intention of stopping.” His love for the UK is evident, and he has often cited the country as a key part of his career success.
Cruise’s future in film is far from over. He will soon be seen in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, the final installment in the Mission: Impossible franchise, set for release on May 31, 2025. This promises to be yet another action-packed adventure, but fans of Cruise will be hoping it’s not the last time they see him on screen.
Conclusion: More Than Just an Action Star
Tom Cruise has undeniably built an incredible legacy as one of Hollywood’s most enduring action stars, but as Kenneth Branagh points out, there’s much more to his career than just blockbuster action films. Cruise remains an underrated talent, and his best performances may still be ahead of him. For those who see beyond the explosions and stunts, Tom Cruise’s future in cinema remains as exciting as ever.
This article is originally published on: allocine
