In a rare and candid interview with Sight and Sound magazine, Tom Cruise has offered unexpected praise for his ex-wife, Nicole Kidman, and shared moving tributes to several Hollywood icons. The interview, conducted in conjunction with Cruise receiving a BFI Fellowship, coincides with the upcoming Cannes premiere of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two, adding to the already significant buzz surrounding the event.
Kidman's Talent Recognized: Cruise's comments regarding Kidman are particularly noteworthy, given the pair's generally private nature when discussing their past relationship. While promoting the film Eyes Wide Shut (1999), directed by Stanley Kubrick, Cruise openly acknowledged Kidman's acting prowess. He stated that he suggested Kidman for the role of Alice Harford, explaining, “Because obviously she’s a great actress.” This public affirmation of Kidman's talent is a significant departure from their typically reserved public interactions.
The Making of Eyes Wide Shut: Cruise detailed the collaborative and improvisational nature of working with Kubrick, describing the experience as “a very unique experience – not a large crew.” He revealed that the script was largely an outline, with scenes constantly rewritten and reshot to achieve the desired tone. The intensity of filming extended over a long period, further emphasizing the dedication and effort invested in the project. The couple even had family dinners with Kubrick during filming, showcasing a deep personal connection beyond the set. Nicole Kidman also later recalled balancing the intense demands of filming with raising their young children and fondly remembered those moments.
A Tribute to Val Kilmer: The interview also included a poignant tribute to the late Val Kilmer, Cruise's co-star in the Top Gun franchise. Cruise spoke movingly about Kilmer's initial reluctance to participate in Top Gun: Maverick and the efforts made to secure his involvement. He highlighted Kilmer's charisma and the powerful impact of his performance despite limited screen time, emphasizing Kilmer’s talent and ability to embody the iconic Iceman character with minimal dialogue. The reunion of the two actors on the set of Top Gun: Maverick is described as a joyous occasion, reminiscent of their earlier collaboration.
Masterclass in Acting: Cruise further expressed his admiration for acting legends Jack Nicholson and Marlon Brando. He described Nicholson's meticulous approach to his role in A Few Good Men, highlighting his command of body language and phrasing. Regarding Brando, Cruise lauded his effortless mastery in The Godfather, emphasizing the iconic scene with the cat as a testament to Brando's instinctive understanding of cinematic technique and his remarkable ability to make it look easy. He referred to it as capturing “lightning in a bottle,” comparing it to the thrill of live performance.
Beyond the Headlines: The interview goes beyond simple praise; it offers a glimpse into Cruise's process, his appreciation for collaboration, and his profound respect for the craft of acting. It also highlights his personal connections with the people he's worked with, showcasing his personality beyond the action hero persona. This unusually candid interview provides a unique perspective on Cruise’s career and his personal views on the legends of the film industry, marking a moment of rare vulnerability and genuine appreciation.
