In a recent podcast interview, Oscar-winning actor Sean Penn surprised listeners by highlighting his camaraderie with Tom Cruise instead of mentioning fellow Oscar-winner Daniel Day-Lewis, often considered his peer. Penn expressed respect for Cruise, emphasizing his dedication to achieving excellence in the film industry.

The Craft of Acting

Penn remarked on Cruise’s unique approach to filmmaking, stating, “Tom Cruise…he is a guy who pursues excellence on a very high level.” This statement led to a broader discussion on the different genres of film, with Penn acknowledging the varied appreciation audiences have for indie films versus blockbusters.

Value of Craftsmanship

In discussing Cruise’s impact, Penn commented, “This is a very good actor who’s also an extraordinarily committed craftsman.” He stressed that the high caliber of films Cruise is associated with requires exceptional talent, underscoring that the success of such projects is no mere coincidence.

Stunt Mastery

Penn boldly declared, “He’s probably the best stuntman in the movie world,” citing Cruise’s extensive skills and the unique challenges he faces. He noted that the scale of stunts Cruise performs is unmatched, contributing significantly to the evolution of action cinema.

Acknowledgment of Stunt Professionals

During the conversation, podcast host Louis Theroux playfully interjected, “Apologies to all the stuntmen out there.” In response, Penn expressed respect for the stunt community, suggesting that Cruise’s achievements promote the industry overall and create more opportunities for skilled professionals.

Upcoming Film Stunts

The discussion coincided with the promotion of Cruise’s latest film, “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.” Director Christopher McQuarrie shared insights into a remarkable stunt involving Cruise piloting a biplane solo at high altitude. McQuarrie explained that while filming, Cruise was responsible for lighting and camera operation, essentially fulfilling multiple crew roles.

Extreme Conditions

Describing the challenging conditions of the shoot, McQuarrie noted, “When you leave the cockpit of the plane, it’s like stepping onto the surface of another planet.” He highlighted the extreme wind conditions that added difficulty to the filming process, further testing Cruise’s skills and resilience. Eventually, Cruise successfully landed the plane with minimal fuel remaining.

Shared Recognition

McQuarrie concluded, “No one on Earth can do that,” a sentiment that resonates with Penn as well. Their shared admiration illustrates the high regard for Cruise’s contributions to cinema, both as an actor and a craftsman.