Tom Cruise discusses why he has not directed a movie yet. Despite being a major advocate for cinema, known for his dedication and high standards on set, he has never taken on the role of director.
In a recent appearance on the Kelce brothers’ New Heights podcast, Cruise was asked if he planned to direct in the future. The Mission: Impossible star responded, “You know what? Since I was a kid, friends have been like, you should direct.”
“I’ve studied the old movies, and these filmmakers can create four movies a year. I want to produce many films, and I’ve always wanted to make a lot of movies. I enjoy collaborating with different directors. I love learning from them, understanding their stories, and providing them opportunities.”
He compared his thought process to that of NFL players, saying, “It’s like, look, you guys weren’t drafted first round, you know, but they saw that light in you and your ability, and you guys bring it. And I like… The people that I’m choosing or working [with], maybe not everyone knows necessarily — some do, some don’t.”
Cruise elaborated, “But I’m not just referring to directors; it’s everything. The excitement of that — to have that opportunity — if I’m directing, I don’t get to experience that. That’s how I view things… That’s how I feel about directors. I want to support them. The cinematographers, the actors; I want to learn… I enjoy seeing their perspectives and mixing things up.”
Tom Cruise’s approach to filmmaking goes beyond acting
Discussing his passion for being on set and experiencing every facet of the filmmaking process, Tom Cruise stated, “I’m not interested in going to my trailer. I enjoy being with the crew. I like being with everyone.”
“I prefer being on set. They have a box for me, and I’m always hanging out,” the Digger star continued. “I observe what they’re doing; I vibe with the director and everyone; I’m always present.”
Cruise’s meticulous attention to technical details is one of the defining traits of his long-standing career in the entertainment industry. For example, for Top Gun: Maverick, he developed an extensive aviation training program for the cast so they could operate the in-cockpit IMAX cameras while enduring intense, unsimulated G-forces.
Ultimately, Tom Cruise’s approach to filmmaking transcends acting.
