In a new bonus feature accompanying the digital release, Tom Cruise and director Christopher McQuarrie pull back the curtain on one of the most nerve-racking moments in Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning: the climactic biplane sequence. As the scene unfolds, Cruise explains that the sheer force involved actually separated the joints in his fingers, leaving his hands swollen by the end of the stunt. McQuarrie confirms the pain, noting that “a lot of pain here” was endured for the shot.
The pair’s discussion spotlights how far Cruise is willing to go for authenticity. In the clip, Cruise is seen gripping a belt strap as the aircraft tilts and dives, with McQuarrie emphasizing the brutal physical toll of the sequence. Cruise himself describes the moment as brutal, underscoring the level of commitment that has defined the franchise’s most iconic action set pieces.
The film, introduced with fanfare at Cannes and released in theaters in May, was billed as Cruise’s final outing in the long-running series. It opened to a global haul of about $200 million, the franchise’s strongest opening. Since then, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning has grossed about $596 million worldwide, marking a high-water mark for the franchise despite ongoing questions about Cruise’s future in the role of Ethan Hunt.
Cruise also used the moment to again express gratitude to everyone involved in making the movie—from filmmakers and crew to studio partners and theater staff—and to fans, with a message that emphasizes the collaborative spirit that fuels the franchise’s big-screen storytelling. When asked about continuing the Ethan Hunt story, Cruise refrained from making a firm commitment, saying he’d prefer audiences to enjoy the film and its culmination as it stands.
For home viewing, the action-packed adventure is now available to rent or buy on PVOD and will be released on 4K Ultra HD, DVD and Blu-ray on October 14, giving fans a chance to relive the daring stunts in enhanced detail.
Value add and why it matters:
– The behind-the-scenes bonus reinforces the Mission: Impossible brand as a showcase for high-risk, practical stunts and the intense teamwork between Cruise and McQuarrie.
– The financial performance confirms the franchise’s enduring global appeal, even as it reaches what’s framed as a final chapter.
– Home-release availability offers fans a new opportunity to study the filmmaking craft, from stunt coordination to the meticulous execution of each sequence.
Summary: The new bonus feature highlights Tom Cruise’s willingness to push his body to the limit for authentic action, offering fans a rare glimpse into the making of one of the franchise’s most demanding sequences. The film’s impressive box office and ongoing home-release availability continue to fuel anticipation around the Mission: Impossible saga and its signature blend of daring stunts and teamwork. Positive takeaway: fans have a fresh chance to appreciate the craft and dedication that have kept the series at the forefront of action cinema.