The Mission Impossible franchise has captivated audiences for over two decades with its heart-pounding action, intricate plots, and charismatic lead, Tom Cruise. As we eagerly await the release of the upcoming installment, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, let’s take a deep dive into the previous films that have made this series a true cinematic phenomenon.
1. Mission: Impossible (1996)

The film that started it all. Directed by Brian De Palma, Mission: Impossible introduced us to Ethan Hunt and the IMF (Impossible Mission Force). This espionage thriller set the tone for the series, blending intricate heists, nail-biting suspense, and high-stakes action. Cruise’s portrayal of Hunt and the iconic scene of him dangling from the ceiling in the CIA vault set the stage for what would become one of the most popular action franchise’s ever made.
2. Mission: Impossible 2 (2000)

John Woo took the helm in this explosive sequel that amped up the adrenaline. With its emphasis on stylized action sequences and the introduction of Thandie Newton as the female lead, the film pushed the boundaries of the franchise’s action genre. While some criticized the plot for its simplicity, Mission: Impossible 2 still delivered on its promise of non-stop thrill and action.
3. Mission: Impossible III (2006)

Under the direction of J.J. Abrams, the third installment injected new life into the series. The film delved deeper into Ethan Hunt’s personal life, introducing his love interest, Julia (played by Michelle Monaghan), and a formidable villain in Philip Seymour Hoffman’s Owen Davian. This entry struck a perfect balance between character development and explosive set pieces, solidifying the franchise’s place as a blockbuster powerhouse.
4. Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)

With Brad Bird at the helm, Ghost Protocol took the franchise to new heights, literally. The film’s standout sequence, where Cruise scales the Burj Khalifa, remains one of the most exhilarating moments in cinematic history. The addition of Jeremy Renner as Agent Brandt injected new dynamics into the team’s overall dynamic, showcasing the IMF’s resilience and resourcefulness throughout.
5. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)

Rogue Nation continued the trend of raising the bar for the franchise. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the film introduced Rebecca Ferguson as the enigmatic and skilled Ilsa Faust, a character who quickly became a fan favorite. The film boasted thrilling action sequences, including a high-speed motorcycle chase and an intense underwater mission. Rogue Nation solidified the series as a consistent source of high-octane entertainment.
6. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)

Considered by many as the pinnacle of the franchise, Fallout pushed the boundaries of action filmmaking to new limits. McQuarrie returned as director, delivering a tightly woven plot with stunning cinematography and jaw-dropping stunts. Fallout’s relentless pacing, emotionally charged moments, and memorable performances, including Henry Cavill as the imposing August Walker, showcased the franchise at its peak.
It’s safe to say that the Mission Impossible film series has proven to be a consistent source of adrenaline-fueled entertainment, captivating audiences with its intricate plots, intense action sequences, and Tom Cruise’s unwavering dedication to performing his own stunts. Each installment has contributed to the franchise’s success, building upon the foundation set by its predecessors.

As we eagerly anticipate the release of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, we can reflect on the journey of Ethan Hunt and the IMF, their triumphs, and their ability to overcome seemingly impossible challenges. Dead Reckoning Part One is scheduled to arrive in theaters July 14th, 2023.