The "Mission: Impossible" franchise has come a long way since its inception as a quintessential Brian De Palma spy-thriller. Initially intended as a standalone exploration of spies and high-stakes missions, the franchise has now evolved into a global brand with its seventh installment, "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One," set to release soon. In this article, we delve into the transformation of the franchise over the past 27 years, examining its enduring appeal, its successes, and the critical thoughts expressed by De Palma himself.
The Birth of a Franchise
When the first "Mission: Impossible" film hit the screens, it was a gripping tale of a man wrongfully framed, helmed by the visionary director Brian De Palma. It stood alone, devoid of any franchise aspirations. De Palma crafted a thrilling narrative, enriched with layered characters, that captivated audiences. Fast forward to the present, and Ethan Hunt (portrayed by Tom Cruise) has become a franchise icon, fearlessly leaping off towering buildings and neutralizing global threats with relentless determination.
The State of Hollywood and Franchise Films
De Palma, in an interview with AP Press, expressed his concerns about the present state of Hollywood. He lamented the over-reliance on CGI and the diminishing focus on visual storytelling. While there is merit to De Palma's observation, talented filmmakers continue to strike a balance between visual spectacle and intricate storytelling, creating films of profound impact.
However, De Palma's criticism of profit-driven franchises and their constant churn of movies is not unfounded. Many franchises fail to deliver meaningful content, offering underwhelming and forgettable experiences. Does the same apply to the "Mission: Impossible" franchise? Let's explore what the director had to say.
The Temptation of Sequels
De Palma revealed that when Cruise approached him for an immediate sequel, he declined the offer. He sees little appeal in blockbuster franchises like "Mission: Impossible." However, it is undeniable that both the box office and audiences eagerly anticipate each new installment. These movies excel at entertaining a diverse demographic, with Cruise's central presence adding to the captivating spectacle. The "Mission: Impossible" films have raised the stakes with death-defying stunts, generating unprecedented hype. The reasons behind this phenomenon demand a nuanced discussion, considering various factors and perspectives.
De Palma's Influence on the Franchise
Regardless of whether one agrees with De Palma's stance, his original "Mission: Impossible" laid the foundation for the megablockbuster franchise we know and love today. The 1996 film showcased an amalgamation of influences that shaped the franchise's trademarks. De Palma intricately portrayed Ethan Hunt as a character with depth, not merely a reckless IMF officer, but a relatable protagonist embroiled in a conspiracy. The film incorporated elements of noir through skillful cinematography techniques, gradually unraveling the thrilling mystery surrounding Hunt's wrongful framing. Subsequent sequels carried forward this character tradition, albeit in a more accessible manner, as Hunt confronted his inner conflicts and embraced various disguises to pursue elusive objectives.
The Impact of Audacious Stunts
The franchise has always been synonymous with audacious stunts and breathtaking action set pieces. De Palma himself contributed to this legacy, suggesting the unforgettable kinetic train sequence where Hunt leaps atop a fast-moving train, ultimately causing the destruction of an enemy helicopter. Additionally, the tension-filled and gripping vault scene, also envisioned by De Palma, has become an iconic element, iterated upon in subsequent installments. These defining moments laid the groundwork for Hunt's fearless and thrill-seeking persona, which endears him to audiences worldwide.
The Future of the Franchise
As the highly anticipated "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One" approaches its release date, the question arises: Will it elevate the franchise even further? While only time will tell, it's worth acknowledging the exceptional journey the franchise has undertaken thus far. Ironically, we owe this success to De Palma's original vision, which set the wheels in motion.
From its humble beginnings as a standalone spy-thriller, the "Mission: Impossible" franchise has transformed into a global phenomenon. It has captured audiences with its riveting storytelling, death-defying stunts, and the enduring portrayal of Ethan Hunt by Tom Cruise. While De Palma's criticisms of Hollywood and franchise films hold some truth, the undeniable appeal and success of the "Mission: Impossible" franchise cannot be ignored. As we eagerly await the release of the latest installment, we reflect upon the evolution of the series and appreciate the contributions of Brian De Palma in shaping its foundations.
"Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One" arrives in theaters on July 12, 2023.
