When it comes to action movies, few actors are as synonymous with death-defying stunts as Tom Cruise. Known for performing his own daring feats, the Hollywood superstar has once again promised to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the upcoming Mission: Impossible installment. As fans eagerly await the next jaw-dropping spectacle, let’s take a look back at some of the greatest practical stunts in cinematic history.
While CGI often dominates modern filmmaking, these real-life stunts remind us of the adrenaline-pumping power of practical effects. Here are five incredible stunts that showcase the ingenuity, courage, and sheer madness of action movie legends.
1. Tom Cruise Hanging Off a Plane in Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
Tom Cruise’s commitment to authenticity is unmatched. For Rogue Nation, he clung to the side of an Airbus A400M as it took off, reaching speeds of up to 185 mph.
- Why it’s amazing: The scene was shot without green screens or doubles. Cruise was strapped to the plane with a harness, enduring intense wind pressure and flying debris.
- Fun fact: The stunt required eight takes to get it right. Cruise’s biggest concern? A bird strike while hanging mid-air!
2. The Burj Khalifa Climb in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
Cruise’s ascent of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is nothing short of legendary. Suspended over 1,700 feet above the ground, he ran, jumped, and rappelled across the glass façade.
- Why it’s amazing: This scene is one of the most expensive and daring stunts ever filmed, with Cruise relying on custom-built harnesses and minimal safety nets.
- Impact: The scene cemented the Mission: Impossible series as a benchmark for practical stunt work in Hollywood.
3. Jackie Chan’s Clock Tower Fall in Project A (1983)
Jackie Chan is another actor who’s made a career out of insane stunts. In Project A, he falls from a clock tower, bouncing off awnings before hitting the ground.
- Why it’s amazing: No CGI or wires were used, and Chan performed the stunt himself — twice. He suffered numerous injuries but delivered a scene that’s still revered today.
- Legacy: The clock tower fall inspired countless filmmakers and is considered a masterclass in stunt choreography.
4. Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock’s Bus Jump in Speed (1994)
In Speed, a city bus carrying passengers must jump a 50-foot gap in a highway bridge. The tension, realism, and execution make it an unforgettable moment.
- Why it’s amazing: The stunt involved an actual bus modified to increase lift. It successfully made the jump in real life, landing with enough force to shatter its suspension.
- Audience reaction: The scene’s heart-stopping realism added to the film’s reputation as one of the greatest action movies of the 1990s.
5. Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Bike Chase in Premium Rush (2012)
While not as high-profile as the others on this list, the bike stunts in Premium Rush are a testament to the thrill of practical effects. Gordon-Levitt’s character weaves through New York City traffic at breakneck speeds.
- Why it’s amazing: The stunts required precision and real danger, with Gordon-Levitt performing many sequences himself. One stunt resulted in 31 stitches after a collision with a taxi.
- Why it’s underrated: The film’s grounded approach to action makes it a hidden gem for fans of practical stunt work.
What Makes Practical Stunts So Special?
Practical stunts are more than just thrilling visuals. They:
- Add realism: Audiences can sense the difference between CGI and real-life action, creating a deeper connection with the story.
- Showcase craftsmanship: Behind every stunt is a team of experts — from stunt coordinators to rigging specialists — whose work deserves recognition.
- Elevate storytelling: Practical stunts ground even the most outlandish action sequences, making them more believable.
Honorable Mentions
- The Helicopter Chase in Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018): Cruise piloted the helicopter himself, performing dangerous maneuvers over rugged terrain.
- Mad Max: Fury Road (2015): Almost every action sequence in this film relied on practical effects, including high-speed chases and breathtaking explosions.
- The Dark Knight (2008): The truck flip scene remains one of Christopher Nolan’s most iconic practical effects.
Tom Cruise and the Future of Action Stunts
With each Mission: Impossible film, Cruise raises the bar for practical stunts, proving that there’s no substitute for real, high-octane action. As technology continues to evolve, blending CGI and practical effects may become the norm. But for now, these death-defying feats remind us of the visceral thrill only real stunts can deliver.
So, the next time you’re watching an action movie, take a moment to appreciate the skill and bravery behind the scenes. After all, it’s these unsung heroes who make movie magic happen—no green screen required.
