As one of the most bankable and consistent movie stars, Tom
Cruise has delivered an impressive range of memorable roles and films. With his
good looks, charisma, and dedication to performing his own stunts, Cruise has captivated
audiences for over 30 years. While his filmography contains a few missteps, the
highlights demonstrate his ability to anchor big-budget action movies as well
as critically acclaimed dramas. Cruise’s top 10 films feature his most iconic
characters and demonstrate his talents as a versatile actor.
In reviewing Cruise’s standout performances, it becomes
clear why he endures as a Hollywood legend. Whether playing the earnest hero,
the cocky ace pilot, or the sports agent fighting for justice, Cruise has repeatedly
proven his star power.
Tom Cruise’s Breakout Role – Risky Business
Released in 1983, Risky Business cemented Tom Cruise as a
rising star and teen heartthrob. In the film, Cruise plays Joel Goodson, a high
school student who turns his family home into a brothel when his parents go
away on vacation. Joel’s rebellious adventure When Joel’s parents leave town, he
follows their orders to be responsible. However, after a friend convinces him
to take a risk, Joel calls a call girl named Lana (played by Rebecca De Mornay)
who brings her friends over to Joel’s house. They end up turning it into a
brothel for a night.
Critical acclaim and cultural impact
Risky Business was a massive critical and commercial hit,
earning over $63 million at the box office. The film received widespread
critical acclaim for its humor, Cruise’s performance, and capturing the
rebellious spirit of upper middle-class American youth in the 1980s. The film
is known for popularizing Ray-Ban sunglasses and helping launch the brand into mainstream
fashion. The iconic scene of Cruise dancing in his underwear to “Old Time
Rock and Roll” has been frequently parodied in popular culture.
Breakout role for Tom Cruise
Risky Business established Tom Cruise as a star and teen
idol. His performance as the charming and rebellious Joel Goodson earned him widespread
critical acclaim and attention from major film studios. Following Risky
Business, Cruise starred in other hit ’80s films like Top Gun, Rain Man, and
Born on the Fourth of July, cementing his status as a blockbuster star and
leading man in Hollywood. Cruise’s role in Risky Business and his memorable
dance scene has endured in popular culture and has come to symbolize his early
breakout success and stardom.
Top Gun – The Movie That Made Him a Star
Released in 1986, Top Gun cemented Tom Cruise as a leading
man and cultural icon. In the film, you play Lt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a
skilled but rebellious U.S. Navy fighter pilot. Sent to the elite Fighter
Weapons School, known as “Top Gun,” your character competes to be the best
fighter pilot.
Compelling Storyline and Characters
The storyline of competition, romance, and personal growth
enthralled audiences. Val Kilmer, as your rival “Iceman,” creates palpable
tension. The romance with instructor Charlotte “Charlie” Blackwood, played by
Kelly McGillis, shows your character’s softer side. Under the tutelage of Viper
and Jester, you learn to follow orders and be part of a team.
Groundbreaking Cinematography
Director Tony Scott revolutionized action sequences using
aerial stunts and dogfight scenes. Filmed at real naval bases, the F-14 Tomcats
are the real stars. Cameras mounted inside the cockpits and planes flying
inverted created a sense of realism never before seen. The adrenaline-fueled “Danger
Zone” soundtrack by Kenny Loggins matched the tone perfectly.
Cultural Impact
Top Gun defined the ‘80s and shaped pop culture. Quotes like
“I feel the need…the need for speed!” entered our lexicon. The black leather
jacket and aviator sunglasses became a fashion staple. Interest in becoming a
naval aviator spiked 500 percent after the film’s release due to your memorable
performance. Over 30 years later, Top Gun remains an iconic American film that
made you a global superstar.
Cruise Shines in Rain Man
In Barry Levinson’s 1988 film Rain Man, Tom Cruise delivers
a compelling performance as Charlie Babbitt, a selfish car dealer who discovers
he has an autistic savant brother named Raymond, played by Dustin Hoffman. Charlie’s
Journey of Discovery When Charlie’s estranged father passes away, he learns
that he has been left out of the will in favor of the brother he never knew he
had. Charlie travels to Wallbrook, the institution where Raymond lives, with
the intention of manipulating Raymond into giving him half of the $3 million
inheritance. However, Charlie’s time with Raymond leads to a journey of
discovery that transforms him from a materialistic hustler into a caring
brother.
The Complexity of Autism
Hoffman’s portrayal of Raymond, who adheres strictly to
routines and schedules, demonstrates the challenges of living with autism.
Raymond can calculate complex math problems in his head but struggles with
basic social skills and communication. As Charlie and Raymond embark on a crosscountry
road trip together, Charlie begins to understand his brother’s condition and
appreciate Raymond for who he is.
An Unforgettable Road Trip
The scenes of their road trip are memorable, from Raymond’s
refusal to fly to his insistence on watching the suspenseful ending of his
favorite TV show each week. Although Raymond’s behaviors exasperate Charlie at
first, Charlie comes to admire Raymond’s kindness, honesty and childlike sense of
wonder. By the end of their journey, Charlie has discovered a newfound capacity
for patience, compassion and unconditional love. Cruise and Hoffman have an
authentic chemistry and their complex, nuanced performances earned them Academy
Award nominations for Best Actor. Rain Man is a poignant, moving story of
family and personal growth that reminds us of the profound impact one person
can have on another. More than 30 years after its release, it remains an
unforgettable film and one of Cruise’s finest.
Mission: Impossible – His First Blockbuster Franchise
Tom Cruise’s breakout role as Ethan Hunt in the Mission:
Impossible film franchise cemented his status as an action star. When the first
Mission: Impossible movie was released in 1996, it was a massive blockbuster
hit that grossed over $457 million at the worldwide box office. The daring stunts
and espionage plot captivated audiences and turned the movie into a cultural
phenomenon.
An International Spy Thriller
The Mission: Impossible films follow Ethan Hunt, an agent
for the Impossible Missions Force (IMF), an elite covert organization that
carries out dangerous missions across the globe. Each movie in the franchise
features Hunt on a new impossible mission, utilizing high-tech gadgets and
death-defying stunts to defeat villains threatening humanity. The exotic
international settings and intrigue of the spy genre lend an air of
sophistication and excitement to the action-packed films.
Groundbreaking Stunts and Effects
A major part of the franchise’s appeal and success comes
from its jawdropping stunts and action sequences. Tom Cruise, who performs many
of his own stunts, dangles from the ceiling of a soundproof room in the first film
and clings to the side of a flying plane in Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation.
The visual effects and stunts in each sequel seem to outdo the previous one,
pushing the boundaries of action and raising the stakes for both the characters
and the audience.
An Enduring Franchise
Now spanning six films from 1996 to 2018, with at least two
more sequels planned, the Mission: Impossible series has endured for over 20
years, outlasting other action franchises of the era. The chemistry between Tom
Cruise and Ving Rhames, who plays Ethan Hunt’s friend and IMF teammate Luther
Stickell, as well as the globe-trotting adventures and twisty plots give the
films a re-watchability factor for longtime fans of the franchise. For Tom
Cruise, Ethan Hunt and the Mission: Impossible series cemented an image of him
as a dashing action hero that has persisted throughout his career.
Jerry Maguire Shows His Dramatic Abilities
In 1996, Tom Cruise starred in Cameron Crowe’s Jerry
Maguire, a film that allowed him to demonstrate his range as a dramatic actor.
In the movie, Cruise plays Jerry Maguire, a successful sports agent who has an
epiphany that causes him to question the morality of his business practices. He
pens a heartfelt mission statement decrying the impersonal nature of his
industry and calling for more meaningful relationships with clients. However,
this act of conscience ends up costing him his job.
Starting Over With One Client
Maguire struggles to start his own agency and only retains
one client, football player Rod Tidwell, who stays loyal despite better offers
from bigger agencies. Cruise deftly portrays Maguire’s complicated blend of
idealism, selfishness, and insecurity as he navigates this difficult transition
in his career and relationships. His performance earned him his second Academy Award
nomination for Best Actor.
A Compelling Love Story
A memorable love story between Maguire and Dorothy Boyd, a
single mother played by Renée Zellweger, provides an emotional backdrop for Maguire’s
journey. Although their romance begins impulsively, Zellweger and Cruise
develop a chemistry and rapport that make the relationship feel authentic. We
come to care deeply about whether or not these two flawed but likable
characters can find their way to a happy ending together.
Memorable Supporting Characters
Memorable performances by a strong supporting cast,
including Cuba Gooding Jr. as Rod Tidwell and Bonnie Hunt as Dorothy’s sister,
round out this film. Gooding Jr. won the Academy Award for Best Supporting
Actor for his portrayal of the brash but endearing Tidwell. His exuberant “Show
me the money!” catchphrase became ubiquitous following the movie’s release.
Jerry Maguire is a quintessential Tom Cruise vehicle that
makes the most of his charisma and talent. It features one of his most nuanced
and compelling performances in a role that only he could play. Over 20 years
later, it still holds up as one of the best films of his career and an all-time
romantic comedy classic.
Vanilla Sky Displays His Acting Range
In Vanilla Sky, Tom Cruise plays David Aames, a wealthy
playboy whose life takes a dramatic turn after a car accident leaves his face
severely disfigured. This psychological thriller gave Cruise the opportunity to
demonstrate his range and skill as an actor. At the start of the film, Cruise
embodies the charming but aimless Aames, coasting through life on his good
looks and family fortune. However, after Aames’ accident and facial
reconstruction, Cruise adopts a darker, more tormented persona. His character
becomes increasingly paranoid and unhinged as he grapples with the uncertainty
of what is real and imagined.
Cruise conveys Aames’ anguish and descent into madness with
palpable intensity. The film ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the
superficiality of appearances and importance of following one’s purpose.
Cruise’s nuanced performance is central to the film’s effectiveness in exploring
these themes. His ability to smoothly transition between the superficial
charmer Aames once was and the broken man he becomes demonstrates Cruise’s
range and adds layers of complexity to the character.
While the surreal, mind-bending nature of Vanilla Sky’s plot
is not for all viewers, Cruise’s compelling performance makes the film worth
watching. His emotional depth and dynamism in portraying Aames’ harrowing
journey of self-discovery provide a glimpse into the talent underlying Cruise’s
typical action-hero roles. For fans of psychological thrillers and
character-driven stories, Vanilla Sky is a showcase of Tom Cruise at his most
versatile.
Collateral – A Dark and Gritty Crime Thriller
A Compelling Premise
In Collateral, Tom Cruise delivers a chilling performance as
Vincent, a contract killer who takes a taxi driver named Max hostage for the
evening to transport him between hits in Los Angeles. The film has a simple yet
utterly compelling premise that sets the stage for a cat and mouse game between
Vincent and Max over the course of one long night.
Directed by Michael Mann
The film was directed by Michael Mann, known for crime
thrillers like Heat and The Insider. Mann is in top form here, crafting a
stylish and atmospheric film that makes the most of LA’s nocturnal landscape.
His use of handheld cameras and muted tones gives the film a sense of gritty
realism. The action sequences are tense and expertly filmed, with a memorable
chase scene through a deserted office building.
A Battle of Wits
At the center of the film is the battle of wits between
Vincent and Max. Cruise is chilling as the emotionless hitman, but Jamie Foxx
also gives a strong performance as the unwitting cab driver who must think
quickly to survive the night. The cat and mouse game between these two
characters, and the shifting power dynamics, keeps you guessing as to who will ultimately
come out on top. Max is an underdog you can root for, while Vincent is a
menacing villain with a strict code of ethics regarding collateral damage.
An Underrated Thriller
Collateral is a stylish, well-acted thriller that somehow
flew under the radar when released. While not flashy, it’s a compelling crime
story and a showcase for Tom Cruise in a villainous role. The film holds up
tremendously well, with its exploration of themes like courage under pressure
and moral ambiguity. If you’re a fan of taut, gritty thrillers, Collateral is
well worth discovering or revisiting.
Vintage Cruise in Tropic Thunder
In the action comedy Tropic Thunder (2008), Tom Cruise
delivers an unforgettable performance as the abrasive studio executive Les
Grossman. Cruise is nearly unrecognizable in a fat suit, bald cap, and
prosthetic hands.
His comedic timing and over-the-top physicality showcase a
different side of the typical leading man roles he usually plays. Grossman is
in charge of a troubled Vietnam War film production in the jungles of Southeast
Asia. When the prima donna actors go rogue in the jungle, it’s up to Grossman
and his team to track them down and get the film back on schedule. Cruise’s
performance is one of the highlights of the movie, stealing scenes with his
outrageous and politically incorrect behavior.
His explosive tirades and eccentric dance moves have gained
a cult following.
Behind the scenes, Cruise showed a dedication to his craft
in preparing for the role. He spent over three hours in the makeup chair each
day to transform into the character. His commitment to even small details, like
Grossman’s signature finger gestures and awkward gait, demonstrate why Cruise
is considered one of the most diligent actors in Hollywood. Tropic Thunder
serves as an example of Cruise venturing outside of his typical action hero
roles and showcasing his versatility and comedic skills.
Though the movie received mixed reviews, Cruise’s
performance as the unhinged Les Grossman is widely praised as one of his most
memorable characters. His willingness to take risks and not take himself too
seriously gives audiences a chance to see a different side of the iconic actor.
Overall, Tropic Thunder highlights why, over 30 years into his career, Cruise
remains an enduring star of the silver screen.
The M:I Movies Keep Getting Better
The Mission: Impossible film franchise is one of the
longest-running and most successful action spy thriller series in cinema
history. Over the course of six films spanning from 1996 to 2021, the series
has grossed over $3.5 billion at the box office. A large part of the
franchise’s success and longevity can be attributed to its star, Tom Cruise,
who plays IMF agent Ethan Hunt in each film. With Cruise at the helm, the
Mission: Impossible films continue to up the ante and push the envelope in
terms of stunts and visual effects with each new installment.
When the first Mission: Impossible film was released in
1996, it was seen as a stylish spy thriller that paid homage to the 1960s TV
series of the same name. The sequels, however, transformed the franchise into a
platform for Cruise and director Christopher McQuarrie’s daredevil ambitions.
The pair have worked to devise increasingly dangerous and elaborate stunt sequences
for Cruise to perform himself. From scaling skyscrapers to highspeed chases to
aerial maneuvers in helicopters, the action set pieces in the later Mission:
Impossible films represent the pinnacle of practical effects and stunt work in
modern blockbusters.
The most recent entries in the franchise, Mission:
Impossible – Fallout (2018) and Mission: Impossible 7 (2021), are widely
considered to be among the best action spy thrillers of the 21st century. The
films double down on real stunts and globetrotting adventure while also
developing Hunt into a more complex and compelling character. At nearly 60
years of age, Tom Cruise shows no signs of slowing down — if anything, his
stunts have only become more death-defying over time.
As long as Cruise and McQuarrie remain at the helm, the
Mission: Impossible series will likely continue scaling new heights and pushing
the envelope of action cinema. The franchise is a testament to an actor’s
dedication to his craft and a director’s vision for innovative, heart-pounding
entertainment.
Movies FAQ – Answering Your Tom Cruise Questions
Tom Cruise has starred in many blockbuster films over his
decades-long career. If you’re new to Cruise’s filmography or simply want to
revisit some of his biggest hits, you likely have a few questions about his
most popular movies. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked
questions about Tom Cruise’s must-see films.
What is Top Gun about?
Released in 1986, Top Gun is an
action drama that follows students at the U.S. Navy’s Fighter Weapons School.
Cruise stars as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a talented but reckless
fighter pilot who competes to be the best in his class. The movie is best known
for its fighter jet action sequences, 80’s soundtrack, and beach volleyball
scene.
Why is Jerry Maguire such a popular film?
Jerry Maguire,
released in 1996, is a sports comedy-drama starring Cruise as the title
character, a charismatic sports agent. The film is a critique of greed and
commercialization in professional sports, following Maguire as he navigates
starting his own agency. Memorable scenes and quotes like “Show me the
money!” and “You had me at hello” have endured in popular
culture. The film was a major critical and commercial hit, earning Cruise a
Golden Globe for Best Actor.
What’s the plot of Rain Man?
Released in 1988, Rain Man is a
road trip comedy-drama that follows selfish car dealer Charlie Babbitt (Cruise)
as he travels cross-country with his autistic savant brother Raymond (Dustin Hoffman).
Charlie is at first only interested in Raymond’s trust fund but eventually
grows to truly care for his brother. The film is a sensitive and moving
portrayal of autism and won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Cruise’s filmography includes many other critically and
commercially successful films spanning action, drama, and science fiction
genres.
Exploring his films offers a glimpse into the major
blockbusters and cultural touchpoints of the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s as well as
Cruise’s own evolution as an actor and producer. Whatever questions you may
have about his films,
Cruise’s compelling on-screen presence and choice of
thought-provoking roles have cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s biggest
stars.
Conclusion
You’ve just taken a deep dive into Tom Cruise’s storied
career and most acclaimed films. From his early dramatic turns in Risky
Business and Born on the Fourth of July to action blockbusters like Top Gun and
the Mission: Impossible series, Cruise has shown incredible range as a leading
man.
Whether he’s charming audiences with his trademark smile or
performing jaw-dropping stunts, his commitment to every role is clear. Though
his personal life is often in the spotlight, what shines through in his body of
work is his talent and passion for the craft of acting. As you look back at his
most memorable performances, it’s easy to see why Cruise remains one of the
biggest movie stars in the world. His diverse filmography is a testament to his
longevity and ability to reinvent himself decade after decade.
