Tom Cruise’s Space Movie Shelved, Boosting Prospects for Mission: Impossible 9
Tom Cruise’s ambitious plans for a post-Mission: Impossible career have hit a snag following the cancellation of his space movie. This unexpected turn of events has raised the prospects of a possible return for Cruise in Mission: Impossible 9.
Mission: Impossible Franchise Background
Tom Cruise made his mark as Ethan Hunt in the Mission: Impossible franchise. The series has grossed an impressive $4.7 billion globally, making it incredibly lucrative. Last year’s installment, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, was initially touted as the last adventure for Cruise in this role.
Potential for Mission: Impossible 9
Despite the concluding chapter, the ending leaves room for more. Ethan Hunt remains alive, and Cruise has expressed interest in continuing the character’s legacy. He has stated he would like to emulate Harrison Ford’s long tenure in his roles.
While no official plans for Mission: Impossible 9 are currently in place, the landscape may change quickly.
Cancelled Space Movie
Initially announced in 2020, Cruise aimed to star in Hollywood’s first feature filmed in actual space, collaborating with NASA and SpaceX. Doug Liman was set to direct, marking another partnership after their work on Edge of Tomorrow.
However, due to technological hurdles, the project was set back and was ultimately cancelled. Reports indicate that Cruise chose not to seek assistance from former President Donald Trump to advance the project. This cancellation follows another setback with another of his films, Deeper, co-starring Ana de Armas, which is struggling to find new backing.
Return to Established Franchises
The cancellation of his space movie and the mounting challenges with other projects suggest a shift back to franchise films could be imminent. Paramount Pictures, now under CEO David Ellison, is focusing on reinforcing its franchises. This includes reviving interest in the Mission: Impossible series.
Future Prospects: Mission: Impossible 9 or Top Gun 3?
- Mission: Impossible 9 may be more favorable now, especially given Paramount’s franchise strategy.
- Cruise reportedly had a past disagreement with Ellison regarding budget issues but has patched things up, indicating potential discussions about new projects.
- Top Gun 3 might also be on the table as another franchise priority, having found more recent success compared to Mission: Impossible.
As the film industry landscape shifts, Cruise’s next steps remain uncertain but ripe with potential, especially among familiar franchises.
