Tom Cruise is a Hollywood superstar known for his good looks, charisma, and intense on-screen performances. He has been a staple of the film industry for over three decades and has starred in some of the biggest blockbusters of all time. In this article, we will take a look at Tom Cruise’s movies in order and give a detailed review of each film.
Endless Love (1981)
Tom Cruise’s first film role was a small supporting role in the romantic drama “Endless Love.” Although his role was small, Cruise’s performance caught the attention of industry insiders and set him on the path to stardom. Unfortunately, the film itself is forgettable, and it is not a great introduction to Cruise’s acting talent.
Taps (1981)
Cruise’s second film was a military drama called “Taps.” In this film, he plays a cadet at a military academy who leads a rebellion against the school’s authorities. The film is a bit heavy-handed in its messaging, but Cruise gives a solid performance and shows early signs of his star potential.
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The Outsiders (1983)
“The Outsiders” is an adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s popular novel about rival gangs in a small town. Cruise plays a supporting role as a member of one of the gangs. The film is notable for its all-star cast, which includes Matt Dillon, Patrick Swayze, Rob Lowe, and Emilio Estevez. Cruise’s performance is solid, but he is somewhat overshadowed by the rest of the cast.
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Losin’ It (1983)
“Losin’ It” is a forgettable comedy about a group of teenagers who go to Tijuana to lose their virginity. Cruise plays the leader of the group and gives a charismatic performance, but the film is forgettable.
Risky Business (1983)
“Risky Business” is the film that made Tom Cruise a household name. In this iconic coming-of-age film, Cruise plays a high school student who turns his parents’ house into a brothel while they are away. The film is notable for its iconic scene of Cruise dancing in his underwear and for launching his career as a leading man. Cruise gives a career-defining performance, and the film is a must-see for any fan of ’80s cinema.
All the Right Moves (1983)
In “All the Right Moves,” Cruise plays a high school football star who dreams of escaping his small town and making it to college. The film is a bit heavy-handed in its messaging, but Cruise gives a solid performance as the lead. The film is worth watching for fans of sports dramas.
Legend (1985)
“Legend” is a fantasy film directed by Ridley Scott. Cruise plays a young forest dweller who must save his world from an evil demon. The film is visually stunning, with impressive special effects and a memorable score by Tangerine Dream. However, the plot is thin, and the film feels a bit derivative of other fantasy films of the era.
Top Gun (1986)
“Top Gun” is one of Tom Cruise’s most iconic films. In this action-packed drama, Cruise plays a hotshot Navy pilot who competes against his rival for the title of Top Gun. The film is known for its thrilling aerial scenes, its memorable soundtrack, and Cruise’s sizzling chemistry with his co-star, Kelly McGillis. Cruise gives a career-defining performance, and the film is a must-see for fans of ’80s cinema.
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The Color of Money (1986)
“The Color of Money” is a sequel to the classic film “The Hustler.” In this film, Cruise plays a young pool hustler who is taken under the wing of Paul Newman’s character, Fast Eddie. The film is a solid drama with excellent performances from Cruise and Newman. Cruise shows a different side of his acting talent, playing a cocky and self-assured young man who learns the ropes from the seasoned pro. The film is worth watching for fans of classic Hollywood dramas.
Cocktail (1988)
“Cocktail” is a romantic drama about a young bartender who dreams of making it big in New York City. Cruise plays the lead role, and the film is notable for its memorable soundtrack and its depiction of the fast-paced world of bartending. However, the film has not aged well, and its treatment of women is outdated and sexist. Cruise gives a charming performance, but the film is best left in the ’80s where it belongs.
Rain Man (1988)
“Rain Man” is a drama about a selfish young man who discovers that he has an older brother who is autistic. Cruise plays the young man, and Dustin Hoffman plays his brother. The film is a masterpiece of acting, with both Cruise and Hoffman giving career-defining performances. Cruise shows a range of emotions as his character learns to connect with his brother and discovers the true meaning of family. The film is a must-see for any fan of great cinema.
Born on the Fourth of July (1989)
“Born on the Fourth of July” is a biographical war drama based on the life of Vietnam veteran Ron Kovic. Cruise plays Kovic, and the film follows his journey from idealistic young man to disillusioned veteran and anti-war activist. The film is powerful and emotional, with Cruise giving a career-defining performance. The film is a must-see for any fan of great cinema.
Days of Thunder (1990)
“Days of Thunder” is a sports drama about a young racecar driver who dreams of winning the Daytona 500. Cruise plays the lead role, and the film is notable for its thrilling racing scenes and its depiction of the high-stakes world of NASCAR. However, the film is formulaic and predictable, and Cruise’s performance is a bit wooden. The film is worth watching for fans of sports dramas, but it is not a standout in Cruise’s filmography.
Far and Away (1992)
“Far and Away” is a romantic drama about two Irish immigrants who come to America in search of a better life. Cruise plays the lead role, and the film is notable for its beautiful cinematography and its depiction of the American West in the 19th century. However, the film is melodramatic and a bit over-the-top, and Cruise’s Irish accent leaves something to be desired. The film is worth watching for fans of romantic dramas, but it is not a standout in Cruise’s filmography.
A Few Good Men (1992)
“A Few Good Men” is a legal drama about a military trial involving the death of a young Marine. Cruise plays the lead role, and the film is notable for its sharp dialogue and its excellent ensemble cast, which includes Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore, and Kevin Pollak. Cruise gives a solid performance, but he is somewhat overshadowed by Nicholson’s legendary turn as the arrogant Colonel Jessup. The film is worth watching for fans of legal dramas and great acting.
The Firm (1993)
“The Firm” is a legal thriller based on the bestselling novel by John Grisham. Cruise plays a young lawyer who takes a job with a prestigious law firm, only to discover that the firm is involved in criminal activity. The film is suspenseful and well-acted, with Cruise giving a strong performance as the lead. The film is worth watching for fans of legal thrillers and great acting.
Interview with the Vampire (1994)
“Interview with the Vampire” is a horror drama based on the bestselling novel by Anne Rice. Cruise plays the vampire Lestat, and the film also stars Brad Pitt and Kirsten Dunst. The film is a visually stunning portrayal of the world of vampires, and Cruise gives a charismatic and intense performance as the villainous Lestat. The film is worth watching for fans of horror and great acting.
Mission: Impossible (1996)
“Mission: Impossible” is an action thriller based on the popular TV series of the same name. Cruise plays the lead role of Ethan Hunt, an agent for the Impossible Missions Force who must clear his name after he is framed for a crime. The film is a classic example of ’90s action cinema, with thrilling set pieces and a great score by Hans Zimmer. Cruise gives a solid performance as the lead, and the film launched a successful franchise that continues to this day.
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Jerry Maguire (1996)
“Jerry Maguire” is a romantic comedy-drama about a sports agent who has a crisis of conscience and decides to start his own agency. Cruise plays the lead role, and the film also stars Renee Zellweger and Cuba Gooding Jr., who won an Academy Award for his performance. The film is notable for its memorable catchphrases and its depiction of the cutthroat world of sports management. Cruise gives a nuanced and heartfelt performance as Jerry, and the film is a must-see for any fan of great cinema.
Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
“Eyes Wide Shut” is a psychological thriller about a doctor who becomes obsessed with the sexual fantasies of his wife. Cruise plays the lead role, and the film was directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick. The film is a haunting exploration of desire and jealousy, and Cruise gives a vulnerable and intense performance as the conflicted protagonist. The film is a must-see for any fan of great cinema.
Magnolia (1999)
“Magnolia” is an ensemble drama about a group of interconnected characters in Los Angeles. Cruise plays a motivational speaker who must confront the demons of his past. The film is a tour-de-force of acting, with a talented cast that includes Philip Seymour Hoffman, Julianne Moore, and John C. Reilly. Cruise gives a raw and powerful performance as Frank T.J. Mackey, and the film is a must-see for any fan of great cinema.
Minority Report (2002)
“Minority Report” is a science fiction thriller about a future where crimes can be prevented before they happen. Cruise plays the lead role of John Anderton, a detective who must clear his name after he is accused of a crime he has not yet committed. The film is a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of free will and fate, and Cruise gives a solid performance as the lead. The film is a must-see for any fan of science fiction and great acting.
The Last Samurai (2003)
“The Last Samurai” is a historical drama about a Civil War veteran who travels to Japan and becomes embroiled in the conflict between the samurai and the Japanese government. Cruise plays the lead role, and the film is notable for its stunning visuals and its portrayal of Japanese culture. Cruise gives a nuanced and emotional performance as Nathan Algren, and the film is a must-see for any fan of great cinema.
Collateral (2004)
“Collateral” is a crime thriller about a hitman who forces a taxi driver to drive him around Los Angeles as he completes his assignments. Cruise plays the hitman, and the film also stars Jamie Foxx, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance. The film is a tense and exciting thriller that explores themes of morality and the consequences of our actions. Cruise gives a chilling and intense performance as Vincent, and the film is a must-see for any fan of crime thrillers.
War of the Worlds (2005)
“War of the Worlds” is a science fiction action film based on the novel by H.G. Wells. Cruise plays the lead role of Ray Ferrier, a father who must protect his family from an alien invasion. The film is a thrilling and intense ride that explores themes of survival and family. Cruise gives a solid performance as the lead, and the film is a must-see for any fan of science fiction and great action.
Mission: Impossible III (2006)
“Mission: Impossible III” is the third film in the franchise and sees Ethan Hunt facing off against a dangerous arms dealer. Cruise once again gives a solid performance as the lead, and the film is a thrilling and exciting ride that is sure to please fans of the series. The film also stars Philip Seymour Hoffman, who gives a standout performance as the villainous Owen Davian.
Lions for Lambs (2007)
“Lions for Lambs” is a political drama that explores the War on Terror and the role of the media in shaping public opinion. Cruise plays a senator who is interviewed by a journalist played by Meryl Streep. The film is a thought-provoking exploration of the issues of our time, and Cruise gives a solid performance as the senator. The film is a must-see for any fan of political dramas.
Valkyrie (2008)
“Valkyrie” is a historical thriller based on the true story of a plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Cruise plays the lead role of Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, who is tasked with leading the coup. The film is a tense and exciting thriller that explores themes of loyalty and sacrifice. Cruise gives a solid performance as the lead, and the film is a must-see for any fan of historical dramas and great acting.
Tropic Thunder (2008)
“Tropic Thunder” is a comedy about a group of actors who are filming a war movie in Southeast Asia and find themselves in real danger. Cruise plays a small but memorable role as the ruthless studio executive Les Grossman. The film is a hilarious satire of Hollywood and the movie industry, and Cruise steals the show with his outrageous and over-the-top performance.
Knight and Day (2010)
“Knight and Day” is an action comedy about a rogue spy and a woman who get caught up in a dangerous adventure. Cruise plays the lead role of Roy Miller, and the film also stars Cameron Diaz. The film is a fun and entertaining ride that showcases Cruise’s charisma and action chops. While the film may not be the most groundbreaking, it is definitely worth a watch for fans of action comedies.
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
In this fourth installment of the Mission: Impossible franchise, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team are on the run after being implicated in a bombing at the Kremlin. They must race against time to clear their names and prevent a global nuclear war. The movie was directed by Brad Bird and features a star-studded cast that includes Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, and Paula Patton.
Rock of Ages (2012)
Rock of Ages is a musical comedy that is set in the 1980s and follows the story of a small-town girl and a city boy who meet on the Sunset Strip while pursuing their dreams of becoming rock stars. The movie features a talented cast that includes Tom Cruise, Julianne Hough, Alec Baldwin, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
Jack Reacher (2012)
Based on the popular novel series by Lee Child, Jack Reacher is a crime thriller that follows the story of a former military investigator who gets drawn into a complex case involving a sniper who has killed several people. The movie was directed by Christopher McQuarrie and stars Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, and Richard Jenkins.
Oblivion (2013)
Oblivion is a science fiction film set in the year 2077, where Jack Harper (Tom Cruise) is a drone repairman stationed on a ruined Earth. He soon discovers a group of humans who have been living underground and uncovers a sinister plot that threatens the survival of the human race. The movie was directed by Joseph Kosinski and stars Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman, and Olga Kurylenko.
Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
In Edge of Tomorrow, Tom Cruise plays the role of a military officer who finds himself caught in a time loop after being killed in action during a war against an alien race. He must relive the same day over and over again until he can figure out a way to defeat the aliens and save humanity. The movie was directed by Doug Liman and stars Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, and Bill Paxton.
Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
In the fifth installment of the Mission: Impossible franchise, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team must take down an international rogue organization called the Syndicate. The movie was directed by Christopher McQuarrie and features a talented cast that includes Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, and Jeremy Renner.
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The Mummy (2017)
The Mummy is a reboot of the classic monster movie franchise and follows the story of an ancient princess who is awakened from her tomb and threatens to unleash a wave of destruction on the world. Tom Cruise plays the role of Nick Morton, a soldier who teams up with an archaeologist (Annabelle Wallis) to stop the mummy’s evil plans. The movie was directed by Alex Kurtzman and also features Sofia Boutella and Russell Crowe.
American Made (2017)
American Made is a biographical crime film based on the life of Barry Seal, a former TWA pilot who becomes a drug smuggler for the Medellín Cartel in the 1980s. Tom Cruise plays the role of Barry Seal, and the movie was directed by Doug Liman. The film also stars Sarah Wright, Domhnall Gleeson, and Caleb Landry Jones.
Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
In the sixth installment of the Mission: Impossible franchise, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team must track down stolen plutonium while being pursued by a vengeful CIA agent. The movie was directed by Christopher McQuarrie and features an all-star cast that includes Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill, Rebecca Ferguson, and Simon Pegg.
Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Top Gun: Maverick is a highly anticipated sequel to the 1986 classic Top Gun. In this movie, Tom Cruise reprises his role as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a Navy fighter pilot who must navigate a new era of aerial combat. The movie was directed by Joseph Kosinski and features a talented cast that includes Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly, and Jon Hamm.
Overall, Tom Cruise has continued to showcase his versatility and acting prowess in a wide range of films after Knight and Day. From action-packed thrillers to musical comedies and science fiction epics, Cruise has continued to captivate audiences with his performances. Whether you’re a fan of his classic roles or his newer projects, there’s no denying that Tom Cruise is one of the most talented and versatile actors in Hollywood.
Conclusion
Tom Cruise has had a long and varied career in Hollywood, and his filmography showcases his range as an actor and his ability to tackle a variety of genres. Whether you’re a fan of action thrillers, romantic comedies, or historical dramas, there is something for everyone in Tom Cruise’s filmography. Overall, he is a talented actor who has made a significant impact on Hollywood and will continue to do so for years to come.
