Tom Cruise may often be tagged “the last great movie star” and “the man who saved the film industry” during lockdown but, according to his co-star and friend Kenneth Branagh, he remains “underestimated” in his acting.
Cruise’s contribution to filmmaking in the UK is being recognised with a BFI Fellowship – the British Film Institute’s highest award for an actor and producer who has brought millions of pounds into the UK with his catalogue of movies made there over the past four decades – from fantasy Legend through Eyes Wide Shut to the recent Mission: Impossible blockbusters.
Branagh, who co-starred with Cruise in the 2008 Valkyrie, told The Times of London newspaper:
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“If he ever tires of wowing the world with action, he’s going to surprise those who view him as only a movie star. What he’s done with Mission and Top Gun is unique — cinematic entertainment with a serious intent to give you a wonderful time at the movies. But he’s an underestimated actor — for whom a golden age of performance beckons.”
Branagh added that Cruise has enjoyed many an evening in a traditionally British pub, where he enjoys respect from locals but a lack of fuss. Branagh described:
“He finds a quiet corner, enjoys the atmosphere and is always gracious when he gets spotted. He’s a natural giggler and just enjoys what he does so much and that’s infectious.”
On news of receiving the Award from the BFI, which will be accompanied by a month-long showcase of his films, Cruise said:
“I’m truly honoured. I’ve been making films in the UK for over 40 years and have no plans to stop.”
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