The Future of Ethan Hunt: Should Tom Cruise Continue or Hang Up His Stunt-Work?

The recent success of Mission: Impossible - Fallout has reignited the debate about Tom Cruise's future as Ethan Hunt. Should the series continue, or is it time to say goodbye to one of cinema's greatest action heroes?

Continuous Improvement in the Mission: Impossible Franchise

For years now, the Mission: Impossible franchise has shown no signs of slowing down. The success of Staff of Fire and Rogue Nation has been followed by Fallout, which many argue is the best action movie of all time. The inclusion of Christopher McQuarrie, Tom Cruise's writer, has undeniably brought a new level of quality to the films. As we gear up for Mission 10, the stunts in Fallout pushed the boundaries, and it will surely be interesting to see even more ambitious stunts in the upcoming installments.

Why Should Tom Cruise Continue Making Mission Impossible Films?

Tom Cruise is not only a great actor but also a highly dedicated and physically capable performer. His contributions to the success of the series are undeniable. Fans and critics alike can enjoy watching him perform dangerous stunts that some may only dream of attempting. As long as Tom Cruise can continue to physically perform these roles, it makes sense to keep him and the franchise rolling forward. Some even suggest that he could continue until 2032 when he is 70, but considering the declining ability to perform such physically demanding tasks, it might be wise to end the series sooner to ensure the quality and integrity of the films.

Retiring from the Mission: Impossible Franchise?

While some argue that Tom Cruise should continue as long as possible, others believe that it is time to say goodbye to Ethan Hunt. This is not because Tom Cruise has performed poorly, but because audience fatigue can set in. It is likely that Mission: Impossible Fallout will perform well at the box office, achieving a figure above $700 million. The trailer's visual appeal and the gut feeling many have about the film's success support this. However, the franchise has been running since 1996, and Ethan Hunt has been the central character in six films. It would be prudent to let the series end on a high note rather than continue until Tom Cruise can no longer physically perform the stunts.

Considering the Profit Margin

Ultimately, the decision to continue or end the franchise will likely depend on the profit margins. If the money continues to roll in, there is no reason to stop. This is a pattern that has been seen before, as exemplified by the Fast and Furious series, which has seen tremendous success in recent installments. However, keeping the series going purely for profit might detract from the quality and the enduring legacy of the films. Personally, I would like to see Tom Cruise go out on a high note, leaving a lasting impression on the character and the audience.

Regardless of what decision is ultimately made, the Mission: Impossible franchise has surpassed itself with each installment. Whether it ends now or goes on for a few more films, Tom Cruise's contributions to the series have cemented his place as one of cinema's most dynamic action heroes.