Hollywood’s superstar Tom Cruise is renowned for his versatile acting capabilities and an incredible list of blockbusters. With a career of over four decades, he’s unquestionably dictated the course of popular culture with his memorable roles. Here’s a countdown of 15 of Tom Cruise’s most iconic movies.
With a career of over four decades, he’s unquestionably dictated the course of popular culture with his memorable roles.
1. Top Gun (1986)
“Top Gun” is a thrilling, action-packed film that follows the journey of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a daring and talented U.S. Navy fighter pilot. Maverick, played by Tom Cruise, gets selected for the elite Top Gun Naval Fighter Weapons School and battles to be the best with intense competition.
The movie has exciting scenes in the air, tense meetings, and a love story. It’s a timeless story about winning, competition, and becoming a better person.
2. Risky Business (1983)
“Risky Business” is a comedic drama about high schooler Joel Goodsen, played by Tom Cruise. While his parents are on vacation, Joel experiences a series of misadventures. Determined to seize the opportunity, Joel starts a unique business venture involving his friends.
The film captures teen rebellion against societal expectations, blending humor and darker themes like greed. It is notable in pop culture, thanks partly to Tom Cruise’s unforgettable dance scene in his socks.
3. Jerry Maguire (1996)
In “Jerry Maguire,” Tom Cruise delivers a stellar performance as a conflicted sports agent at a life crossroads. Amid personal and professional struggles, he wants to rebuild his career and personal life while juggling a new romance.
Cruise’s nuanced performance, marked by emotion and vulnerability, earned him an Oscar Best Actor Award. The film is remembered for the iconic phrase, Show me the money!
4. Born on the Fourth of July (1989)
“Born on the Fourth of July” follows Tom Cruise as Ron Kovic, a Vietnam veteran grappling with life after war. The film authentically depicts Kovic’s physical and emotional struggles and transformation into an anti-war activist.
Cruise’s absorbing portrayal of the stark realities of war earned him an Oscar nomination. The movie represents Cruise’s ability to delve into challenging roles and showcase his acting talents.
5. The Color of Money (1986)
“The Color of Money” features Tom Cruise as Vincent Lauria, an aspiring billiard master learning from the seasoned Eddie Felson, played by Paul Newman. The film delves into the complex mentor-protégé relationship, filled with ambition, rivalry, and respect.
Cruise’s portrayal of the brash Vincent contrasts strikingly with Newman’s experienced Felson. Their on-screen chemistry fuels the film’s narrative and dramatic tension.
6. Rain Man (1988)
“Rain Man” features Tom Cruise as Charlie Babbitt, who exploits his autistic brother for monetary gain. The film showcases Cruise’s range and chemistry with co-star Dustin Hoffman, who plays the role of Raymond—an autistic person with great talent and ability.
The narrative delves into complex sibling dynamics, revealing Cruise’s emotional acting talents. This iconic movie earned four Oscars, including Best Picture.
7. Collateral (2004)
In “Collateral,” Tom Cruise plays Vincent, a relentless hitman who challenges the typical heroic image that Tom Cruise usually portrays. The heart-pounding thriller explores Cruise’s darker acting talents.
Set in nighttime Los Angeles, the film highlights Cruise’s versatility. His memorable silver-haired villain remains a classic portrayal among his diverse roles.
8. The Last Samurai (2003)
“The Last Samurai” stars Tom Cruise as an American military officer absorbed into Japanese samurai culture after a battle. The film delves into themes of honor, duty, and cultural appreciation.
Cruise’s performance marries physical intensity with emotional layeredness. This role earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
9. Interview With the Vampire (1994)
“Interview With the Vampire” casts Tom Cruise as the unforgettable vampire Lestat. This film tells an exciting story about vampires and their lives.
Cruise’s portrayal of Lestat brings a magnetic charm and complexity to the character, showcasing a blend of threat and appeal that captures the audience’s imagination.
10. Tropic Thunder (2008)
“Tropic Thunder” is a comedic action film featuring a group of actors living in a real war while filming a Vietnam War movie. Unaware of their reality, they are propelled into dangerous circumstances and face numerous challenges.
Tom Cruise delivers a stellar performance as Les Grossman, a flamboyant Hollywood producer. Despite his secondary role, Cruise’s high-energy portrayal stands out and adds comedic elements to the story that make him unforgettable.
11. War of the Worlds (2005)
In the 2005 film “War of the Worlds” directed by Steven Spielberg, Tom Cruise shines as Ray Ferrier, a normal man confronting alien attackers. His portrayal of a father determined to safeguard his family amidst turmoil deeply touched viewers and critics.
Though the film did not nab any major awards specifically for Cruise’s performance, it was commercially successful and received generally positive reviews. Many praised Cruise’s acting, emphasizing how he convincingly brought out the raw fear, resilience, and protective instinct of a father in a disaster scenario.
12. A Few Good Men (1992)
“A Few Good Men” features two marines on trial for murder. Tom Cruise confidently portrays their inexperienced military lawyer, Lt. Daniel Kaffee.
The narrative explores themes of military ethics and disobedience. It concludes with a climactic courtroom showdown between Cruise and Jack Nicholson’s Col. Jessep.
13. Jack Reacher (2012)
“Jack Reacher” revolves around a former military investigator, played by Tom Cruise. When a sniper kills five people in Pittsburgh, Reacher is called in to unravel the mystery.
While probing the incident, Reacher discovers a larger, hidden conspiracy. The movie combines action, mystery, and thrills, with Cruise delivering a measured performance.
14. Magnolia (1999)
“Magnolia” is a character-driven, interconnected drama in the San Fernando Valley. The ensemble cast, featuring Tom Cruise, grapples with personal struggles and seeks redemption.
Over a single day, their lives intersect, weaving an intricate narrative. Cruise’s role as Frank T.J. Mackey, a motivational speaker, garnered him critical acclaim.
15. Mission: Impossible Series (1996-present)
“Mission: Impossible” focuses on Ethan Hunt, an Impossible Mission Force (IMF) agent handling critical missions. Each film chronicles Hunt’s quests to defuse dangerous global threats.
He utilizes advanced technology and creative problem-solving strategies. The film series is renowned for its thrilling action, espionage, and elaborate stunts.