Tom Cruise remains one of the last true movie stars, a title he's earned through decades of high-octane blockbusters and fearless performances. But the 2020s have been a mixed bag for the actor, with only one undeniable hit and a few projects that have divided audiences. Here's how his four films of the decade stack up, from the most disappointing to the most triumphant.
4. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (2025)
The eighth installment in the long-running spy franchise was supposed to be a grand send-off, but instead it feels like a misfire. Despite Cruise's commitment to jaw-dropping stunts, the film lacks the relentless energy that made its predecessors so thrilling. The action sequences that do exist are impressive, but they're too few and far between, leaving the 170-minute runtime feeling bloated and sluggish. The plot, which picks up threads from the previous film, feels hastily reassembled, and the conclusion does a disservice to the series' legacy. It's a disappointing end to what was once a gold standard for action cinema.
3. Digger (2026)
It's refreshing to see Cruise step outside his comfort zone with this bizarre, genre-defying drama. Digger is a strange beast, blending elements of drama, dark comedy, and something else entirely that we won't spoil here. It's ambitious and thought-provoking, but also tedious and confusing at times. Cruise delivers a committed performance, but the film's weirdness may alienate mainstream audiences. Still, it's a bold experiment that shows Cruise is willing to take risks, even if the result is uneven.
2. Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
This long-awaited sequel was a cultural phenomenon, reminding everyone why Cruise is a superstar. Top Gun: Maverick delivered everything fans wanted: breathtaking aerial dogfights, a nostalgic yet fresh story, and Cruise at his most charismatic. It was a massive box office hit and a critical darling, proving that traditional movie stars still have pulling power. It's a near-perfect blockbuster that honors the original while soaring to new heights.
1. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
The seventh Mission: Impossible film is a masterclass in action filmmaking. From the thrilling car chase in Rome to the breathtaking train sequence, it's a relentless ride that never lets up. Cruise's dedication to practical stunts is on full display, and the story, while complex, is engaging and sets up the finale perfectly. It's a modern action classic and easily the best thing Cruise has done this decade.
While Cruise's 2020s filmography has had its ups and downs, it's clear he remains a force to be reckoned with. For more action-packed recommendations, check out our list of the best action movies since 2010. And if you're in the mood for more Cruise, his War of the Worlds is leaving HBO Max soon, so catch it while you can.
