Tom Cruise is more than just a Hollywood icon; he’s a daredevil who thrives on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Known for doing his own stunts, Cruise’s commitment to authenticity has led him to some truly heart-stopping moments.
Here are ten times the action star risked his life in the name of cinematic greatness:
1. Scaling the Burj Khalifa (Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol)
In one of the most breathtaking sequences in film history, Cruise scaled the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, using little more than suction gloves.
Despite being harnessed, one slip could have led to catastrophic results as he performed this stunt 2,717 feet above ground.
2. Holding His Breath Underwater (Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation)
For an underwater heist scene, Cruise trained to hold his breath for over six minutes.
The intense preparation didn’t eliminate the danger—one mistake could have left him unconscious underwater.
3. Clinging to a Plane Mid-Takeoff (Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation)
In what is perhaps one of his most insane stunts, Cruise strapped himself to the side of an Airbus A400M as it took off.
The sequence required multiple takes, with Cruise exposed to high winds, freezing temperatures, and the risk of being hit by debris.
4. Leaping Across Rooftops (Mission: Impossible – Fallout)
While filming a rooftop chase scene in London, Cruise miscalculated a jump and slammed into a building. He broke his ankle but finished the take by pulling himself up and running out of frame. Production had to halt for weeks while he recovered.
5. Motorcycle Chase Without a Helmet (Mission: Impossible – Fallout)
In a high-speed motorcycle chase through Paris, Cruise weaved through traffic at breakneck speeds without wearing a helmet. One wrong move could have ended in disaster.
6. Knife to the Eye (Mission: Impossible 2)
In a fight scene with Dougray Scott, a knife was placed mere millimeters from Cruise’s eye. The scene was filmed with precision, but the slightest mishap could have been catastrophic.
7. Hanging Off a Cliff (Mission: Impossible 2)
Cruise performed a free solo climb on Dead Horse Point in Utah without a safety net. Although harnessed, the stunt was so dangerous that the crew had to halt production several times to ensure safety.
8. Helicopter Stunt Flying (Mission: Impossible – Fallout)
Cruise learned to fly a helicopter for a high-stakes chase sequence. The actor performed death-defying maneuvers, including spirals and dives, with no double in sight. One wrong move could have ended in a fatal crash.
9. Jumping Out of a Plane at 25,000 Feet (Mission: Impossible – Fallout)
Cruise performed a High Altitude Low Opening (HALO) jump for a skydiving scene. The sequence required precise timing and coordination to ensure he landed safely, as even a minor error could have been fatal.
10. Battling G-Forces in Fighter Jets (Top Gun: Maverick)
To bring realism to Top Gun: Maverick, Cruise endured extreme G-forces while flying real fighter jets. The physical strain was immense, and any technical failure could have led to a deadly accident.
Conclusion
Tom Cruise’s willingness to risk life and limb has redefined what it means to be an action star. These ten moments highlight not only his dedication but also his unyielding passion for delivering thrilling cinematic experiences.
While his stunts are awe-inspiring, they serve as a reminder of the incredible risks involved in bringing movie magic to life.