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What Did Quentin Tarantino Say About Tom Cruise’s Action Movie That He Loves More Each Time He Watches It? All the Details Revealed
Quentin Tarantino, one of the most iconic directors in modern cinema, has always been known for his deep love and appreciation for movies. His films are often filled with references to pop culture, and his admiration for other filmmakers is well-documented. But when it comes to Tom Cruise, the man behind some of Hollywood’s most famous action franchises, Tarantino has a special fondness for one particular film.
In a recent interview, Tarantino revealed that there is one Tom Cruise action movie that he holds in high regard—so much so that he finds himself loving it more and more every time he watches it. So, what’s the movie that has captured Tarantino’s attention in such a profound way? And why does he keep coming back to it, viewing it as a masterpiece that gets better with each viewing? Let’s take a deeper look at Tarantino’s favorite Tom Cruise action movie and the details behind this fascinating connection.
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The Movie That Captivates Tarantino: ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’
After much speculation, it has been revealed that the Tom Cruise action film that Tarantino holds in such high esteem is “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” (2011), the fourth installment in the beloved Mission: Impossible franchise. Directed by Brad Bird, this film not only took the action genre to new heights but also redefined the Mission: Impossible series with stunning visuals, heart-pounding sequences, and a fresh sense of adventure.
Tarantino’s love for this particular movie seems to be rooted in a few key elements that go beyond the usual thrills of an action blockbuster. In his own words, Tarantino describes the film as one of the finest examples of the action genre, calling it “a perfect blend of old-school cinematic craftsmanship and modern filmmaking techniques.” He has expressed how the film continuously impresses him with its seamless combination of practical stunts, innovative visuals, and emotional depth.
A Love for Practical Stunts and Realism
One of the main reasons Tarantino continues to praise Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol is its commitment to practical stunts. Unlike many modern action films that rely heavily on CGI, Ghost Protocol features a number of real-world stunts, including the jaw-dropping scene in which Tom Cruise scales the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest building. For Tarantino, this level of physicality and risk adds a layer of authenticity that CGI-heavy action films often lack.
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Tarantino, who is a staunch advocate for practical effects in his own films, believes that the use of real stunts adds an emotional layer to the audience’s experience. He has often emphasized the importance of seeing real action unfold on screen, as it creates a visceral connection that computer-generated images simply cannot replicate. “When you watch Tom Cruise hanging off the side of that building, you know that he’s actually doing it,” Tarantino said in a recent interview. “There’s a tension and excitement that comes from knowing it’s real.”
This emphasis on realism is something Tarantino values deeply in filmmaking. For him, the raw intensity of watching a stunt performed without the safety net of digital effects is what sets Ghost Protocol apart from other modern action films. This is a sentiment that is mirrored in Tarantino’s own work, where he often favors practical effects and real action sequences to build suspense and engagement with the audience.
Tarantino’s Appreciation for the Film’s Pacing and Structure
Another aspect of Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol that Tarantino has praised is its impeccable pacing and structure. In typical Tarantino fashion, he values films that maintain a delicate balance between action and narrative. While Ghost Protocol is undeniably action-packed, Tarantino notes that it doesn’t sacrifice its story for spectacle.
“The film knows exactly when to give the audience a break from the action and draw them into the characters’ motivations and dilemmas,” Tarantino explained. “It’s not just about the big set pieces; it’s about creating a real emotional throughline that makes the action matter.”
In Ghost Protocol, the plot centers around Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team as they try to clear their names after being framed for a bombing of the Kremlin in Moscow. The stakes are high, and the personal stakes for the characters—especially Hunt—are deeply felt. Tarantino appreciates how the film takes time to develop its characters, giving the audience emotional investment before diving into the next high-octane sequence.
The seamless integration of character development and thrilling action is something Tarantino has always done in his films, and it’s clear that he admires when other filmmakers achieve this balance. “There’s a rhythm to this movie that feels very much like classic action cinema but with a modern twist,” he said.
The Direction of Brad Bird: A Masterclass in Action
While Tom Cruise’s performance is undoubtedly a standout in Ghost Protocol, Tarantino has also been vocal about the contribution of director Brad Bird. Known for his work on animated films such as The Incredibles and Ratatouille, Bird brought a unique touch to Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol. Tarantino has referred to Bird as a “master of the craft” for his ability to create visually stunning action sequences that don’t rely on excessive special effects. Instead, Bird uses classic filmmaking techniques, such as clever camera angles and tension-building pacing, to deliver heart-racing moments.
One of the standout sequences that Tarantino often mentions is the climactic scene in the parking garage, where the film’s tension builds to a nail-biting moment. Tarantino admires how the action sequences are never chaotic or overly complicated. “It’s a simple fight, but it’s a fight that feels real,” he explained. “Brad Bird knows how to make action sequences feel grounded and personal, even when the stakes are global.”
The Cruise Factor: Why Tom Cruise’s Dedication Resonates with Tarantino
Another factor in Tarantino’s admiration for Ghost Protocol is Tom Cruise’s unwavering dedication to the role of Ethan Hunt. Tarantino has always been outspoken about his respect for Cruise as an actor, particularly in how he approaches his action roles. For Tarantino, Cruise is one of the last true action stars who performs his own stunts, a quality that is becoming rarer in today’s Hollywood.
“What makes Tom Cruise so special is that he genuinely throws himself into every action scene, no matter how dangerous,” Tarantino said. “He’s not just playing a character—he’s living it.”
Cruise’s commitment to his role is evident in Ghost Protocol, where he performs not only the iconic Burj Khalifa scene but a number of other intense stunts, including a high-speed chase in Mumbai. Tarantino sees this level of dedication as something that elevates the film beyond mere entertainment. “Tom Cruise doesn’t phone in his performances. He brings a level of authenticity that most actors today can’t match.”
Tarantino’s Legacy and His Connection to ‘Ghost Protocol’
Tarantino’s affection for Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol speaks to his broader philosophy on filmmaking: he values movies that push the boundaries of what is possible, while still maintaining the emotional core of storytelling. In a world where action movies are often criticized for being empty spectacles, Ghost Protocol stands as an example of how to balance thrilling action with compelling characters and a solid narrative.
For Tarantino, it’s a film that, upon every viewing, reveals something new and deeper—whether it’s the intricacies of the stunt choreography, the pacing of the plot, or the sheer dedication of the actors involved. “The more I watch it, the more I love it,” Tarantino admits. “It’s a movie that just gets better with time.”
In the end, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol is a movie that resonates with Tarantino because it reflects the qualities he admires most in filmmaking: dedication, creativity, and an understanding of the deep emotional connection that action can create. For those who have yet to experience the magic of this film through Tarantino’s eyes, it may be time to give it another watch—and discover what makes it a true cinematic gem.
