Tom Cruise Has the Perfect Reason to Reboot Mission: Impossible 9

Tom Cruise appears to have stepped away from his role as Ethan Hunt in the Mission: Impossible series, at least temporarily, with no clear plans for further installments after Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. As Cruise explores new creative paths, including a return to dramatic roles, the future of the franchise remains uncertain. However, the recent revelation that acclaimed director Paul Thomas Anderson showed interest in collaborating on a Mission: Impossible film offers Cruise a compelling reason to revive the franchise.

Tom Cruise’s Departure and the End of an Era

After nearly three decades as Ethan Hunt, Tom Cruise has seemingly brought his run in the Mission: Impossible franchise to a close. The actor’s partnership with talented directors has produced exhilarating films known for their practical stunts and high-octane adventure sequences. Despite financial incentives, Cruise has shown no strong motivation to continue beyond the latest film, signaling a potential finale for the series as fans have known it.

Paul Thomas Anderson’s Unexpected Interest in the Franchise

Paul Thomas Anderson, renowned for his intense, personal dramas, recently expressed regret in a French interview that he never received a call from Cruise about directing a Mission: Impossible movie. Known for films like Magnolia, Boogie Nights, and There Will Be Blood, Anderson’s association with high-profile, thought-provoking dramas initially made him an unlikely candidate for such a blockbuster series. His comment,

“I would have loved to, but I never received his phone call. I was very disappointed. I think he’s done with Mission: Impossible, so it’s not going to happen.”

– Paul Thomas Anderson, Director shows both his enthusiasm and resignation about the opportunity.

This unexpected interest reshapes the conversation about the franchise’s future, as Anderson’s distinct style could inject fresh energy into the Mission: Impossible world, potentially redefining the tone and direction of the series.

The Potential Impact of a Paul Thomas Anderson-Directed Mission: Impossible

Until now, Anderson had not ventured into large-scale action or spectacle-driven movies, focusing instead on narrative-rich, character-driven projects. With a new film, One Battle After Another, receiving a 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes and praise for its gripping car chase sequence, Anderson has demonstrated his evolving capability to handle action elements. This progression suggests that his vision could align well with the franchise’s need for thrilling, practical stunts while adding emotional depth.

Collaborating with Cruise once more, over two decades after Magnolia, could offer both men an opportunity to create a Mission: Impossible installment that stands out not just for explosive action but also for its narrative complexity. Anderson’s involvement could elevate the franchise beyond its current formula, potentially delivering a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that appeals to both critics and fans.

Challenges and Opportunities for Cruise’s Return

Cruise’s hesitation to continue might also stem from creative uncertainties, especially with Christopher McQuarrie’s future involvement unclear. Replacing McQuarrie with a director of Anderson’s caliber, known as one of the greatest modern American filmmakers, could offer a new kind of creative leadership. Anderson’s direction could help craft a fully realized script and push Cruise to explore new dimensions of his action star persona.

The risk of revisiting the franchise after its apparent conclusion is tangible, but so is the potential reward. Anderson’s bold filmmaking style promises to inject originality and gravitas into the project, potentially culminating in a Mission: Impossible film worthy of critical acclaim and fan excitement alike.

Why This Moment Is Ideal for a Franchise Revival

Given the current uncertainty surrounding the future of Mission: Impossible, Paul Thomas Anderson’s interest represents a rare and valuable opportunity for Tom Cruise. This collaboration could offer a fresh creative spark to reinvigorate a beloved series, making it more than just another action sequel. While it remains unknown whether Cruise will heed this call, the prospect of their reunion brings hope for a new chapter that could redefine the franchise’s legacy.