Now That the Academy Honors Stunts, Can We Give Tom Cruise His Long Overdue Oscar?

Tom Cruise is widely known for his death-defying stunts in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ film series, captivating audiences with his daring performances. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recently revealed plans to introduce a new category for Best Stunt Design at the Oscars, beginning with the 2028 ceremony. This category seems tailor-made for Cruise, a Hollywood icon who has never clinched a competitive Oscar despite his remarkable career.

One of Cruise’s unforgettable stunts includes leaping from a hill onto the wing of a taxiing cargo plane in ‘Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation’, setting the bar high just four minutes into the film. This audacious display of action sets the tone for the adrenaline-pumping sequences that follow, showcasing Cruise’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional action filmmaking. His dedication to performing these stunts without the aid of green screens or special effects adds a level of authenticity that resonates with audiences worldwide.

From scaling the world’s tallest building in ‘Ghost Protocol’ to executing helicopter stunts in ‘Fallout’ and launching off cliffs in ‘Dead Reckoning’, Cruise consistently delivers jaw-dropping moments that blur the line between fiction and reality. His passion for immersive storytelling through action set pieces reflects a long-standing tradition of onscreen daredevilry seen in cinema history, where performers like Jackie Chan and Buster Keaton paved the way for actors like Cruise to push the limits of what is possible on screen.

The announcement of the Oscar for Achievement in Stunt Design comes as a significant recognition for the unsung heroes behind the heart-stopping stunts that captivate audiences worldwide. For decades, stunt performers have brought a sense of thrill and excitement to films, often becoming the focal point of marketing campaigns that draw viewers to cinemas. The long-overdue acknowledgment of these talents by the Academy highlights the crucial role they play in shaping the cinematic experience for moviegoers.

As Cruise gears up for the release of ‘Mission: Impossible 8,’ subtitled ‘The Final Reckoning,’ fans eagerly anticipate another round of death-defying stunts that have become synonymous with the franchise. While details remain scarce about the future of the series, Cruise’s dedication to his craft and commitment to thrilling audiences suggest that ‘The Final Reckoning’ may mark a significant chapter in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ saga. As the franchise nears its conclusion, the question of whether Cruise will finally receive his long overdue Oscar remains a topic of speculation among industry insiders.

The prospect of Cruise being recognised with a competitive Oscar for his stunt work resonates with fans and industry professionals alike. With a track record of box office success and a reputation for delivering unparalleled on-screen performances, Cruise’s impact on the film industry is undeniable. As the Oscars evolve to honour stunt designers, acknowledging Cruise’s contributions to the craft would further solidify his status as a legendary figure in Hollywood.

In the realm of action cinema, where spectacle and daring feats hold a special place in the hearts of audiences, Cruise stands out as a pioneer whose commitment to authenticity and excellence has set him apart. As the Academy prepares to honour stunt designers at the Oscars, the spotlight remains on Cruise as a deserving candidate for recognition for his unparalleled contributions to the world of stunts and action filmmaking. Fans eagerly await the 2028 ceremony to see if Cruise will finally receive the accolade he so rightfully deserves for his groundbreaking work in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ series.