Since its inception in 1996, the Mission Impossible film franchise has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its high-octane action, intricate plots, and the charismatic performance of Tom Cruise as the enigmatic Ethan Hunt. With seven films released to date and more on the way, it’s time to take a deep dive into the series and rank the Mission Impossible movies based on their impact, thrills, and overall entertainment value.
Mission Impossible (1996):
The original installment that started it all, Brian De Palma’s Mission Impossible laid the foundation for the franchise’s success. It introduced us to the world of Ethan Hunt and the IMF (Impossible Missions Force), combining suspenseful espionage with a memorable cast that included Cruise, Jon Voight, and Ving Rhames. The outline of the movie is that an American special agent Ethan Hunt is falsely accused of murdering the entire team and struggles to prove his innocence and catch the real culprit. The iconic set pieces and the thrilling climax in the vault have become synonymous with the series.
Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023):
This movie is a heart-pounding rollercoaster ride that lives up to its franchise’s reputation. Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt, delivering a charismatic and adrenaline-fueled performance. The film seamlessly blends intense action sequences with intricate plot twists, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout. The stunts are jaw-dropping, showcasing Cruise’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of practical effects. The supporting cast, including Rebecca Ferguson and Simon Pegg, adds depth and humor to the film. Director Christopher McQuarrie‘s expert storytelling and sleek cinematography create a visually stunning experience. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One is a thrilling addition to the franchise and leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Mission Impossible – Fallout (2018):
Regarded by many as the franchise’s crown jewel, Fallout showcases the best of what the Mission Impossible films offer. Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, the movie raises the stakes to unimaginable heights with jaw-dropping action sequences, a complex narrative, and exceptional performances. The helicopter chase scene and the bathroom fight sequence alone are worth the price of admission. According to the trailer, the story we get to know is that a group of terrorists is planning to detonate three plutonium cores for a simultaneous nuclear attack on different cities. Ethan Hunt and his IMF team set out to stop the bloodshed.
Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011):
After a brief hiatus, Ghost Protocol revitalized the franchise and brought it back with a bang. Under the direction of Brad Bird, the film introduced us to the Burj Khalifa scene, a breathtaking moment that had audiences on the edge of their seats. The story goes like when the IMF is falsely accused of bombing the Kremlin. Ethan and his team race against time to find the real culprit and clear the organization’s reputation. The ensemble cast, including Jeremy Renner and Simon Pegg, added depth and humor to the mix, making Ghost Protocol a thrilling and enjoyable experience.
Mission Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015):
Continuing the upward trajectory of the franchise, Rogue Nation delivered another adrenaline-fueled adventure. With the IMF disbanded and the CIA on the hunt, Ethan and his team race against time to prove the existence of the Syndicate, a highly skilled terrorist organization, before planning their next attack. The film showcased Cruise’s dedication to performing daring stunts, particularly the airplane sequence, which left audiences awestruck. Rebecca Ferguson’s magnetic presence as Ilsa Faust added an extra layer of intrigue to the already engrossing plot.
Mission Impossible III (2006):
J.J. Abrams injected fresh energy into the series with Mission Impossible III. While not as widely celebrated as some of its successors, the film struck a balance between intense action and emotional depth. The movie’s plot is IMF agent Ethan Hunt is called out of retirement to confront Owen Davian, the ruthless arms dealer who kidnapped Ethan’s wife, Julia Mead. Philip Seymour Hoffman’s chilling portrayal of villain Owen Davian remains one of the franchise’s highlights, elevating the film to new heights.
Mission Impossible II (2000):
John Woo‘s directorial style brought a unique flavor to the franchise, but Mission Impossible II is often seen as the weakest entry in the series. Ethan Hunt, a member of the IMF, is sent to Sydney to prevent a genetically engineered virus made in a laboratory from getting into the hands of a terrorist organization. Despite its flaws, the film still manages to entertain with its trademark Woo-style action sequences and Cruise’s undeniable charisma. However, the plot’s over-the-top nature left some audiences wanting more substance.
The Mission Impossible film franchise has provided audiences with an abundance of heart-pounding action, intriguing plotlines, and memorable characters. From the groundbreaking original to the breathtaking dead reckoning, each installment brings its own unique flavor to the series. While personal preferences may vary, these rankings showcase the evolution and enduring appeal of the Mission Impossible movies. Whether you’re a fan of intense action or intricate spy games, one thing is for sure: Ethan Hunt’s impossible missions are guaranteed to leave you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting the next installment.
