The upcoming “F1” movie has generated significant buzz, especially with Brad Pitt in the lead role. However, a tantalizing question has been posed: What if Tom Cruise, known for his daring stunts and commitment to realism, had taken the wheel instead? This article delves into the perspectives of director Joseph Kosinski and action supervisor Graham Kelly, who suggest that Cruise’s involvement might have led to even more intense and potentially perilous scenarios. We’ll explore their insights on Cruise’s driving capabilities, the potential for on-set risks, and how this project marks a full-circle moment for Kosinski.
Tom Cruise vs. Brad Pitt: A Director’s Perspective
Joseph Kosinski, director of “Top Gun: Maverick,” recently shared his thoughts on the possibility of Tom Cruise starring in the “F1” movie instead of Brad Pitt. In an interview with GQ magazine, Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who began developing the Pitt-starring racing movie during post-production on “Top Gun: Maverick,”, reflected on the distinct approaches of both actors.
Kosinski noted, “Tom always pushes it to the limit, but at the same time is super capable and very skilled. They both have the natural talent for driving. But yeah, I could see Tom maybe scaring us a little bit more.” This statement underscores Cruise’s reputation for pushing boundaries and his exceptional driving abilities, suggesting that his involvement could have elevated the film’s intensity. The comparison highlights the contrasting styles of Cruise and Pitt, with Cruise potentially bringing a higher level of risk and excitement to the project.
Action Supervisor’s Insights: The Risk Factor
Graham Kelly, an action-vehicle supervisor who worked on “Top Gun: Maverick” and various “Mission: Impossible” movies, echoed Kosinski’s sentiments. Kelly’s experience with Cruise on numerous high-stakes projects provides valuable insight into the actor’s approach to stunts and action sequences.
According to Kelly, “We’d have had a crash,” if Cruise were in “F1,” over Pitt. “Tom pushes it to the limit. I mean really to the limit. That terrifies me. I mean, I’ve done loads of ‘Mission: Impossibles’ with Tom and it’s the most stressful experience for someone like me building cars for him, doing stunts with him. Whereas Brad listens and he knows his abilities, and I think he’d be the first to say, ‘Yeah, I’m not going to do that.’”
Kelly’s comments highlight the inherent risk associated with Cruise’s dedication to performing his own stunts and pushing the limits of what’s possible. While Cruise’s commitment is admirable, it also places significant stress on the crew responsible for ensuring his safety. In contrast, Pitt’s more cautious approach may offer a safer and more controlled environment for filming.
A Full Circle Moment for Kosinski
The “F1” project represents a significant milestone in Joseph Kosinski’s career, marking a return to a concept he previously explored with Cruise and Pitt. Before “Top Gun: Maverick,” Kosinski was developing his version of “Ford v Ferrari,” with both actors slated to star.
However, the project faced budgetary constraints, as Cruise and Pitt were keen on doing their own driving, which required a substantial budget that the studio deemed too high. Ultimately, James Mangold directed “Ford v Ferrari” with Christian Bale and Matt Damon. The “F1” movie, therefore, can be seen as a realization of Kosinski’s earlier vision, albeit with Pitt in the lead and without the same budgetary limitations.
Cruise’s Current Projects: Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Tom Cruise is currently captivating audiences with “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” which premiered with a global debut of $200 million, setting a new box office opening record for the actor’s long-standing franchise. This success underscores Cruise’s enduring appeal and his ability to draw crowds with his high-octane action films.
Cruise’s dedication to performing his own stunts and pushing the boundaries of filmmaking continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. His commitment to delivering authentic and thrilling experiences has solidified his position as one of the industry’s top action stars.
Pitt’s Upcoming Film: F1
Brad Pitt’s “F1” movie is scheduled to hit theaters on June 27, promising audiences a high-speed, adrenaline-fueled racing experience. With Joseph Kosinski at the helm and Jerry Bruckheimer producing, the film is poised to deliver a visually stunning and action-packed spectacle.
While Pitt may not be known for the same level of daredevil stunts as Cruise, his involvement ensures a focused and controlled performance, emphasizing the human drama and competitive spirit of Formula One racing. The film is highly anticipated and is expected to be a major box office draw.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Actors, Two Approaches
The hypothetical casting of Tom Cruise in the “F1” movie over Brad Pitt raises intriguing questions about the film’s potential direction and tone. While Cruise’s involvement might have amplified the film’s intensity and risk factor, Pitt’s presence ensures a more measured and controlled approach.
Ultimately, both actors bring unique strengths to their respective projects, contributing to the diversity and excitement of the film industry. As audiences eagerly await the release of Pitt’s “F1” movie, the reflections of Kosinski and Kelly provide a fascinating glimpse into the contrasting styles and capabilities of two of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
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