List compiled by Eddie on 31/07/2015

A polarizing figure off camera and a commanding presence on it, Tom Cruise’s stature as one of the industry’s highest earning and most renowned performers has set him on a pillar that makes him an easy target for ridicule that often pays no heed to his varied and often hugely impressive filmography.

Cruise is often thought of as an 80’s and 90’s heartthrob and an actor most at home performing death defying stunts and while these elements of his career are undeniable, a closer inspection into Cruise’s list of film unearths evidence of a talented actor who has been nominated for 3 career Oscar’s and worked with most of Hollywood’s directing A-list, a varying career that for many would be but a pipe-dream.

Picking the 10 top films from Cruise’s career is a tough task, and when reading this list one must take the biases they may harbor towards Cruise thanks to his well-known antic’s and appreciate the long standing career of an actor that is dedicated to his profession and often excels where others try but fail.

Disclaimer – As always these films are chosen on overall quality not Cruise’s performance alone.

10. Tropic Thunder (2008)

Cruise plays – Les Grossman

Ben Stiller’s star studded send up of Hollywood and its overblown productions is one of the modern era’s funniest comedies. With a raft of memorable dialogue and set pieces, Tropic Thunder provides the belly laughs with a frequency many comedies can only hope for.

Does Cruise do any stunts? If dancing is included then Yes, a big Yes!

9. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

Cruise plays – Cage

By no means perfect, Edge of Tomorrow is without doubt one of the decade’s most enjoyable Sci-Fi romps. With great support from Brit Emily Blunt, enthusiastic direction from Doug Liman and a raft of quality set pieces, Cruise’s fun turn as unlucky soldier Cage helped create a summer blockbuster that deserved a little more love.

Does Cruise do any stunts? Yes.  

8. Jerry Maguire (1996)

Cruise plays – Jerry Maguire

Whilst most famous for its memorable script and a career making and career peak turn from Cuba Gooding Jr., Cameron Crowe’s Jerry Maguire is an ageless rom-com gem that was elevated to another level thanks to Cruise’s energetic turn.

Does Cruise do any stunts? No.

7. Mission: Impossible 3 (2006)

Cruise plays – Ethan Hunt

Perhaps a controversial pick considering the other films in the Mission Impossible cannon, J.J Abram’s entry into the franchise is the film of the series when considering heart mixed with memorable set pieces. A hugely entertaining film for both young and old, this is a mission all can enjoy.

Does Cruise do any stunts? Yes, a casual under the truck roll a highlight.

6. Top Gun (1986)

Cruise plays – Maverick

There’s so much wrong with the 80’s most memorable trip to the skies but there is also so much right. From Kenny Loggin’s, Anthony Edwards and dialogue worthy of a Pulitzer Prize, Top Gun is Cruise’s finest action moment and the quintessential entry into now sadly passed Tony Scott’s filmography. Take me to the danger zone indeed.

Does Cruise do any stunts? Yes.

5. Minority Report (2002)

Cruise plays – Chief John Anderton

Teaming up with Blockbuster mastermind Steven Spielberg turned out to be a great decision for Cruise. Minority Report is both a smart and thrilling Sci-Fi/Actioner that has left a lasting legacy that has now evolved into an upcoming TV series.

Does Cruise do any stunts? Yes.

4. Rain Man (1988)

Cruise plays – Charlie Babbitt

Displaying an oft underutilized compassionate side, Cruise along with Academy Award winner Dustin Hoffman delivered a classic road trip movie like no other in this hugely loveable and moving story of two brothers learning to love each other for who they are. One of the 80’s most loved films is a winner to this day.

Does Cruise do any stunts? No.

3. Collateral (2004)

Cruise plays – Vincent

One of Michael Mann’s most taught and sharp thrillers, Collateral is highly entertaining stuff that features a great one-two act of Jamie Foxx’s unwitting taxi driver and Cruise’s cold calculated hitman. Unique in many ways, this is the thriller genre on top of its game.

Does Cruise do any stunts? Yes.

2. The Last Samurai (2003)

Cruise plays – Nathan Algren

A largely forgotten about and underrated epic from the always intriguing Edward Zwick, The Last Samurai is both a moving and entertaining film set in the later stages of the samurai era of Japan. A film well worth revisiting or catching for the first time, especially for those fans of handsomely made war epics.

Does Cruise do any stunts? Yes.

1. Magnolia (1999)

Cruise plays – Frank T.J Mackey

An incredibly unique and in many ways brave film, Magnolia remains famed director Paul Thomas Anderson’s emotionally deepest film. Tom Cruise was one of many in the picture to deliver a stunning turn with his Oscar nominated performance as the conflicted Frank T.J Mackey. For an in depth analysis of this stunning piece of filmmaking read Jordan’s review here.

Does Cruise do any stunts? No.

Honourable mentions – Born on the 4^th of July, The Colour of Money, Interview with the Vampire, A Few Good Men, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.

What are your favourite Tom Cruise films? Are you a 1980’s cruise fan or do you prefer his later life work? Let us know in the comments below!

For our other actor Top 10’s check out –

Tom Hanks

Bruce Willis

Russell Crowe

Denzel Washington

Brad Pitt

Nicolas Cage

Leonardo DiCaprio

Robert DeNiro