Tom Cruise’s First Mission: Impossible Climbs Paramount+ Streaming Charts
Brian De Palma’s original Mission: Impossible starring Tom Cruise is making waves again on streaming, climbing the Paramount+ charts. Discover what sets this ‘90s classic apart from the rest of the franchise and why its director never returned for a sequel.
Tom Cruise ’s debut as Ethan Hunt in the original Mission: Impossible, directed by Brian De Palma, is enjoying a fresh surge in popularity on streaming platforms. According to recent rankings, the film has secured the seventh spot on Paramount+, while other entries in the franchise, like The Final Reckoning and Mission: Impossible 2, are holding strong at first and third place. This renewed interest highlights the enduring appeal of the series and the unique qualities that set the first installment apart.
De Palma’s Distinctive Touch on a Legendary Franchise
Since its launch, the Mission: Impossible series has become a powerhouse in the action genre, known for its high-octane stunts and unforgettable set pieces. Yet, the inaugural film stands out for its deep roots in mystery and noir, a testament to De Palma’s signature style. The movie’s focus on suspense and intrigue, especially in scenes like the infamous Langley heist, gives it a flavor that’s rarely matched by its successors.
De Palma’s background in crafting gripping thrillers shines through, making the first Mission: Impossible more than just another action flick. The tension surrounding the fate of Ethan’s team and the film’s intricate plotting have helped it maintain a special place in the hearts of fans, even as the franchise has evolved over the years.
How the First Film Redefined the Spy Thriller
While later entries in the series have leaned heavily into blockbuster action, the original movie remains a standout for its commitment to the classic whodunit formula. The film’s blend of espionage, deception, and psychological tension set a new standard for spy thrillers in the ‘90s. Its success is reflected in its solid ratings, with a 7.2 on IMDb and a 67% Tomatometer score, paired with a 71% audience rating.
Mission: Impossible has always been a director-driven franchise, and De Palma’s influence is unmistakable in the first film. His approach brought a level of sophistication and suspense that continues to resonate, distinguishing the movie from the more action-oriented sequels that followed.
Why Brian De Palma Walked Away After One Film
After the success of the first Mission: Impossible, Tom Cruise reportedly wanted De Palma to return for the sequel. However, the director declined, paving the way for John Woo to take the helm for the next installment. Woo’s entry would become one of the most polarizing in the series, but De Palma’s decision was rooted in his philosophy about filmmaking.
De Palma was never interested in making sequels just for profit, a sentiment he made clear when he said:
I said: ‘Are you kidding?’ One of these is enough. Why would anybody want to make another one? Of course the reason they make another one is to make money. I was never a movie director to make money, which is the big problem of Hollywood.
His reluctance to chase box office returns for the sake of it set him apart from many in the industry. Despite his absence, the franchise has thrived, thanks in part to the creative freedom given to each director, allowing them to leave their own mark—just as De Palma did with the original.