Tom Cruise’s Olympic Stunt Receives Mixed Reactions
Tom Cruise’s daring stunt at the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics has sparked a variety of responses from viewers. While some fans marveled at the spectacle, others found it too predictable.
The Stunt Unveiled
Tom Cruise’s Spectacular Entrance
To celebrate the handover from Paris to Los Angeles for the 2028 Olympics, Tom Cruise executed a dramatic stunt that captured the attention of millions. The Mission: Impossible star abseiled from the roof of the Stade de France, landed amidst a crowd of fans, and then hopped onto a motorbike to ride out of the stadium while holding the Olympic flag.
Pre-recorded Film and Hollywood Finale
Following the live action, a pre-recorded film showcased Cruise navigating through the streets of Paris, boarding a plane, and eventually parachuting down to land at the iconic Hollywood sign in Los Angeles. This sequence highlighted Cruise’s reputation for performing his own stunts, a trait that has become synonymous with his career.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Predictability and Familiarity
Some fans had already anticipated Cruise’s involvement, having spotted him in Paris cheering on the U.S. team in various events. This predictability led to mixed reactions on social media. One viewer on X/Twitter quipped, “Happy Olympics Closing Ceremony or as it’s better known Tom Cruise Is Gonna Do a Crazy Stunt Day,” while another called the stunt “totally unsurprising,” adding, “I can imagine Tom Cruise doing [something] like this on a casual Tuesday.”
Appreciation for the Spectacle
Despite the predictability, many viewers appreciated the stunt for its sheer entertainment value. A fan commented, “[Cruise] did all of his favourite stunts, jumped off of a building, rode a motorcycle, ran a bit, climbed a bit, and of course jumped out of an aeroplane. A Mission Impossible supercut.” Another American viewer remarked that it set the tone for the LA games, predicting that it will be “obnoxious all over the place.”
Artistic Differences Between Paris and LA
Contrasting Styles
The closing ceremony also highlighted the contrasting artistic approaches between Paris and Los Angeles. One X/Twitter user humorously noted the difference: “France: ‘This was nice let’s do some art and some weird stuff to close the show and it’ll be nice’ vs. America: ‘STAR SPANGLED BANNER. TOM CRUISE. GUITARS. MOTORBIKES. RED HOT CHILLI PEPPERS.’”
Musical Performances
The ceremony featured performances by American musicians Billie Eilish and H.E.R., showcasing Californian talent. During Cruise’s Mission: Impossible moment, “Can’t Stop” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers played, further emphasizing the American flair.
Cruise’s Stunt as a Promotional Move
Promotion for Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two
Cruise’s stunt also served as a strategic promotional move for his upcoming film, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two, set to release in May 2025. This film marks the eighth installment in the franchise since its inception in 1992.
Paramount Pictures’ Statement
Shortly after the stunt, Paramount Pictures released a statement expressing gratitude towards Cruise for his contributions to the industry. “Today’s closing ceremonies brought our world another incredible moment from Tom Cruise, one that has us looking back on many before it. No matter the mission, he’s always accepted it,” the statement read. “We want to take this opportunity to thank Tom for all that he has done for our industry and art forms as both an actor and a producer.”
Social Media Reactions
Fans’ Comments and Conversations
Fans took to social media to express their thoughts and engage in discussions about the stunt. Some praised Cruise for his dedication and thrilling performances, while others debated the predictability and artistic choices of the closing ceremony.
FAQs
What was Tom Cruise’s stunt at the Paris Olympics closing ceremony?
Tom Cruise abseiled from the roof of the Stade de France, landed amidst fans, rode a motorbike out of the stadium holding the Olympic flag, and appeared in a pre-recorded film parachuting to the Hollywood sign.
Why did some fans find the stunt predictable?
Cruise’s presence in Paris during the Olympics, watching various events, led some fans to anticipate his involvement in the closing ceremony.
How did the artistic styles of Paris and Los Angeles differ during the ceremony?
Paris opted for an artistic and unconventional approach, while Los Angeles showcased a more flamboyant and star-studded style, featuring Tom Cruise, rock music, and motorbikes.
What was the purpose of Cruise’s stunt in terms of promotion?
The stunt served as a promotional move for Cruise’s upcoming film, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two, set to release in May 2025.
What was the reaction from Paramount Pictures?
Paramount Pictures expressed gratitude towards Cruise for his contributions and teased aspects of the forthcoming Mission: Impossible movie.
Conclusion
Tom Cruise’s stunt at the Paris Olympics closing ceremony elicited a range of reactions from viewers. While some found it predictable, others appreciated the spectacle and entertainment value. The event also highlighted the contrasting artistic approaches between Paris and Los Angeles, setting the stage for the upcoming 2028 games. Ultimately, the stunt served as both a thrilling performance and a strategic promotional move for Cruise’s next Mission: Impossible film.
