Why Tom Cruise Keeps Scoring Winners at the Box Office

Tom Cruise, Hollywood’s iconic and indomitable powerhouse, has defied the typical trajectory of an actor’s career. As a multi-faceted performer, Cruise has repeatedly proven that his abilities are boundless. A regular star at Film Festivals, Tom Cruise needs no introduction to fans worldwide. 

 From a promising young star in the early 1980s to an unrivaled veteran, Cruise has sailed through the currents of his career with an unassailable zeal and emerged victorious, time and time again. His longevity and ability to resonate with audiences of all generations set him apart in an industry known for its ephemeral trends.

A Star is Born

The period between Cruise’s graduation from Glen Ridge High School and his star-making performance in the 1983 film “Risky Business” was incredibly short, making his ascent to stardom one of the quickest in Hollywood history. Cruise didn’t serve a lengthy apprenticeship on his way to stardom, unlike many of his contemporaries. He shot from a virtual unknown to an unforgettable performer in the blink of an eye, paving his unique path to fame.

Ironically, one key moment in Cruise’s career trajectory was a missed opportunity. In 1982, Cruise auditioned for the lead role in a TV series, “The Powers of Matthew Star.” Losing out on this role likely facilitated his casting in “Risky Business,” a film that showcased his talent to the world and set him on a journey to unparalleled stardom.

The Versatile Performer

Cruise’s versatility as an actor is often overlooked due to his commercial successes, such as the “Top Gun” and “Mission: Impossible” franchises. However, his four-time Academy Award nominations and collaborations with esteemed filmmakers such as Stanley Kubrick and Steven Spielberg are a testament to his broad range of talent.

His association with esteemed actors like Paul Newman, who he starred alongside in “The Color of Money,” also honed his skills and added depth to his career. Furthermore, his daring roles in films like the 1989 anti-war drama “Born on the Fourth of July” proved that Cruise was more than just a pretty face. His performance as the paralyzed Vietnam War soldier Ron Kovic scored him an Oscar nomination and demonstrated his incredible ability to step into the shoes of a wide range of characters.

Unshakeable Star Power

Despite facing controversy at various points in his career, Cruise’s stardom has proven to be enduring and resistant to significant damage. His undeniable charm, on-screen and off, and dogged commitment to his craft have captivated the public’s imagination.

The recent success of “Top Gun: Maverick,” a sequel 35 years after the original film, speaks volumes about Cruise’s enduring popularity. As an ace fighter pilot on a do-or-die mission, Cruise delivered on expectations. The film grossed nearly $1.5 billion globally, proving that Cruise’s magnetism had not waned over time but captivated a new generation of fans.

Top Gun is a phenomenon, of course, an instantly-recognizable symbol of what it means to a blockbuster movie, or franchise (now that we have got a sequel). It’s not exactly a merchandise money spinner in the mold of Marvel or Star Wars, although you can find a Top Gun video game and a hugely popular Top Gun video slot from Playtech. But both of the films feel like the “essence of Cruise”, showcasing his inimitable will to deliver action-packed entertainment. That’s the reason for the box-office pull of two movies made three decades apart. 

The Cruise Payday Phenomenon

Cruise’s pull is such that his films, like “Top Gun: Maverick” and the “Mission: Impossible” franchise, continue to rack up staggering numbers at the box office, making him one of the highest-earning stars in Hollywood. The financial success of these films doesn’t merely demonstrate the commercial appeal of action-packed blockbusters but, more importantly, reflects the public’s unwavering interest in Cruise as a performer.

His considerable earnings, including his reported payout of over $55 million for “Top Gun: Maverick,” are a testament to his star power. Notably, the film marked the first time a movie in Cruise’s career grossed more than $1 billion globally, a feat that only a handful of other films have achieved.

Cruise’s commitment to the theatrical experience, as seen in his resistance to streaming, is yet another example of his unwavering dedication to the art and business of cinema. His determination has rewarded him with the biggest payday of his career and a position among Hollywood’s highest-grossing actors.

The Last True Film Superstar

Four decades after his breakthrough role in “Risky Business,” Cruise’s popularity seems to be at its zenith. His ability to sustain his career over such a long period, continually reinventing himself while staying true to his craft, is extraordinary. Cruise has defied the odds, appealing to multiple generations and solidifying his status as Hollywood’s last true film superstar. His career, full of thrilling performances, successful franchises, and awe-inspiring moments, redefines the meaning of stardom. 

image source: Pixabay

Other articles from totimes.ca – otttimes.ca – mtltimes.ca