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Ethan Hawke Calls Out Tom Cruise’s Stunt Standard at Sundance

He highlights The Weight’s grounded approach to action to push back on pressure to forgo stunt teams.

Overview

  • Hawke said Cruise has “totally changed what’s expected for actors” and admitted he is “getting angry” that using a stunt team can be seen as lesser.
  • Discussing The Weight at Sundance, Hawke said he performed many stunts but stressed they were “human” with “no ridiculous stunts.”
  • Director Christopher McQuarrie recalled a Mission: Impossible biplane sequence that separated joints in Cruise’s fingers, as Cruise said it nearly broke his back.
  • Stunt coordinator Wade Eastwood said a biplane wing walk left Cruise so drained he had to be carried off and described recent underwater filming as hectic and chaotic.
  • The Academy plans to introduce a Best Stunt Design Oscar in 2028, reflecting growing recognition for stunt professionals.