Tom Cruise made a powerful return to the Cannes Film Festival with the world premiere of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, the concluding chapter in the blockbuster action franchise that has captivated audiences for over three decades.
The film’s premiere was met with a five-minute standing ovation, bringing Cruise visibly close to tears during what became a heartfelt and celebratory moment.
A cinematic spectacle at Cannes
The evening unfolded with grand flair. A 40-piece orchestra opened the night with a live performance of the franchise’s iconic theme music, setting a high-octane tone. Cruise entered the theatre to thunderous applause, accompanied by director Christopher McQuarrie and co-stars Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, Hannah Waddingham, Angela Bassett, Esai Morales, Pom Klementieff, and Greg Tarzan Davis.
After the screening, both Cruise and McQuarrie delivered emotional speeches. “This response is why we do it,” Cruise said. “The big screen experience is why we do it. You are why we do it.” He praised McQuarrie, calling him a friend and collaborator who had taken the franchise to new heights.
McQuarrie, in turn, honoured the cast and crew for their perseverance. “This film was made during a pandemic and through two industry strikes,” he said. “These two films were made over seven years, amid great uncertainty and long gaps. Their faith, dedication, and unquestioning devotion made it possible.”
Early critical reactions
Initial reviews have been largely positive. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian gave the film a glowing five-star review, calling it a “wildly entertaining adventure.” The New York Times praised Cruise’s performance with the headline, “Tom Cruise defies all,” while Variety described the film as a “thrillingly doom-laden series grand finale.”
Still, not all feedback has been glowing. The BBC criticized the movie as “a miserable, apocalyptic tract,” and some online viewers described it as a “mixed bag,” citing heavy exposition and inconsistent pacing.
Despite some criticism, The Final Reckoning is shaping up to be a fitting — and emotional — send-off for one of Hollywood’s most iconic action franchises.
