Tom Cruise Makes Rare Comments About Ex Nicole Kidman
Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise is making headlines again—not just for his upcoming film Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, but for opening up about some of the most iconic names in the film industry. In a rare and revealing interview with Sight and Sound magazine, Cruise praised Nicole Kidman, paid heartfelt tribute to Val Kilmer, and reflected on his collaborations with legends Jack Nicholson and Marlon Brando.
Tom Cruise on Casting Nicole Kidman in Eyes Wide Shut
Cruise, set to receive the prestigious BFI Fellowship this week, discussed his time working with legendary director Stanley Kubrick on the 1999 psychological drama Eyes Wide Shut. He revealed that it was his suggestion to cast Nicole Kidman, then his wife, in the lead role alongside him.
“Obviously, she’s a great actress,” Cruise said. “I knew it would be a long shoot, and I wanted someone I could truly collaborate with.”
Cruise also shared behind-the-scenes details of how the film evolved during production:
- The script was reworked during filming.
- Kubrick and Cruise built a strong creative relationship.
- Nicole Kidman brought depth and complexity to the role of Alice Harford.
Fans of Kubrick and Kidman will appreciate Cruise’s admiration for both the filmmaker and his co-star, reaffirming why Eyes Wide Shut remains a cinematic milestone.
Val Kilmer: A Deeply Personal Tribute
In one of the interview’s most moving moments, Cruise reflected on working with Val Kilmer, his co-star in the original Top Gun and its blockbuster sequel, Top Gun: Maverick. Kilmer, who passed away on April 1, left a lasting impact on Cruise both personally and professionally.
“He became Iceman,” Cruise said. “Even without speaking, he brought that role to life. That’s the power of a true artist.”
Cruise recounted:
- Kilmer initially resisted joining Top Gun.
- Director Tony Scott and Cruise worked hard to bring him onboard.
- His brief appearance in Top Gun had a powerful emotional impact.
Val Kilmer’s Legacy in Top Gun:
- Charismatic and commanding presence.
- A natural ability to create emotional resonance.
- A symbol of enduring friendship in film.
Collaborating with Jack Nicholson: A Few Good Men
Cruise also praised Jack Nicholson, particularly for their unforgettable courtroom scene in A Few Good Men.
“He’s a wordsmith. He knows how to command the scene,” Cruise said. “It’s not by accident—every move he makes is calculated.”
Cruise noted how Nicholson:
- Used body language and voice to dominate scenes.
- Knew the power of the lens and how to use it.
- Was fully immersed in his role as Col. Jessup.
The scene remains one of the most quoted in movie history, showcasing Nicholson’s talent and Cruise’s dynamic presence.
Marlon Brando’s Influence on Modern Acting
Cruise didn’t forget to honor Marlon Brando, calling him a giant in the craft of acting. While he didn’t work directly with Brando, Cruise acknowledged the lasting influence Brando has had on generations of actors.
“He changed everything. He brought a different kind of truth to film,” Cruise stated.
Brando’s legacy continues to inspire actors like Cruise to explore new emotional depths and storytelling techniques.
Tom Cruise Receives BFI Fellowship
Cruise’s reflections come as he’s being honored with a British Film Institute (BFI) Fellowship, joining icons like:
- Martin Scorsese
- Spike Lee
- Barbara Broccoli
- Satyajit Ray
He will participate in a special “In Conversation” event at the BFI Southbank, ahead of the world premiere of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning at the Cannes Film Festival on May 14.
Why This Matters for Movie Fans
This candid interview offers a rare glimpse into Tom Cruise’s respect for his peers and dedication to filmmaking. Whether you’re a fan of Nicole Kidman’s powerful performances, Val Kilmer’s unforgettable Iceman, or Jack Nicholson’s commanding screen presence, Cruise’s stories serve as a tribute to the legends who shaped Hollywood.
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