In Hollywood, the thrill of action has often been tempered by safety and technology, and CGI has increasingly stepped in to replicate daring feats. Yet, some actors still crave the real adrenaline rush, choosing authenticity over digital shortcuts. Glen Powell is one such performer, driven by a desire to push his limits and continue the legacy of Tom Cruise.

Following in the Mission: Impossible star’s fearless footsteps, Glen Powell believes authenticity matters for people who shell out money from their pockets.

The Guardian’s Marina Hyde recently spoke with Glen Powell about his choice to perform his own stunts, following in Tom Cruise’s footsteps, even in an era dominated by CGI. Powell explained that doing so brings authenticity and stakes to his films, emphasizing that when audiences invest time and money buying tickets, arranging childcare, or making an evening out, they deserve a genuine cinematic experience. According to Powell’s philosophy, actors must put themselves on the line to match the audience’s commitment.

Glen Powell, speaking to The Guardian, also shared insights into how Tom Cruise has a sort of rule book for stunts. Cruise, according to Powell, advises on everything from timing night shoots to avoid fatigue-related injuries to the purpose of wetdowns, which improve reflections and hide footprints for continuity. The veteran of the action genre also apparently stresses framing stunts to clearly show height and danger, making the audience feel the risk. Powell and Cruise, for those unversed, starred in Top Gun: Maverick together. But how did the collaboration come to be?

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Glen Powell was almost not a part of Top Gun: Maverick, but a personal call from Tom Cruise changed everything. 

Glen Powell and Tom Cruise connected during the casting process for Top Gun: Maverick. Powell initially auditioned for the role of Bradley Bradshaw, which ultimately went to Miles Teller. Impressed by Powell's performance, though, the filmmakers offered him the role of Jake Seresin. Despite initial reservations about the character's depth, Powell was persuaded to accept the role after a personal call from Cruise, who assured him that he would have the opportunity to breath life into the character. "I'm really proud of the movie and I'm proud of my role in it," he told PEOPLE in 2022.

Glen Powell’s dedication to performing his own stunts ultimately reflects not just his respect for the craft but a commitment to giving audiences an authentic cinematic experience. Learning directly from Tom Cruise has shaped his approach, blending skill, discipline, and fearlessness. With his star steadily rising and whispers of him potentially stepping into the role of the next James Bond, Powell is proving that a combination of talent, guts, and authenticity can make an actor not only memorable on screen but impossible to ignore in Hollywood’s action arena.

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What are your thoughts on Glen Powell’s take on stunts? Let us know in the comments.