Tom Cruise films daring stunts in WWII plane for Mission Impossible 8

Tom Cruise, 62, has been filming intense scenes for the eighth installment of the Mission Impossible franchise, which includes daring stunts in a World War II biplane. The filming took place in Oxfordshire, where he was seen preparing for these heart-stopping sequences. Cruise, who has held a pilot's license since 1994, has been actively involved in the stunts, opting not to use a stunt double, which highlights his commitment to authenticity in his roles. The production of Mission Impossible 8 has faced several delays, initially starting in March 2022 and experiencing interruptions due to promotional activities for the previous film, SAG-AFTRA strikes, and technical issues with filming equipment. Despite these challenges, filming resumed in March 2024 after a brief halt in May due to a faulty gimbal. Cruise's dedication to his craft is evident as he undertakes the challenge of flying an 80-year-old aircraft, which poses significant risks. Reports indicate that he began learning to fly the Boeing Stearman biplane earlier this year specifically for a major stunt scene, showcasing his willingness to push boundaries in action filmmaking. The franchise has a rich history, beginning in 1996, and has seen varying box office success. The previous film, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, did not perform as well as expected, leading to concerns about the financial viability of the series. As filming continues, there is hope that the eighth film will regain the franchise's momentum and deliver thrilling content to audiences.