Six Mission: Impossible Films Called Exemplary Action Movies

Collider writer Liam Gaughan published a Jan. 25, 2026 feature listing six Mission: Impossible films he calls "perfect action masterpieces," arguing the franchise is unusually consistent because of Tom Cruise's strong authorial role and directors being allowed artistic freedom. Gaughan ranks the original Mission: Impossible (1996) for its heist-driven, De Palma-influenced espionage and shocking opening setpiece; Mission: Impossible III (2006) as J.J.

Abrams’s accomplished directorial debut anchored by Philip Seymour Hoffman and the introduction of Michelle Monaghan’s wife character; Dead Reckoning (2023) for its practical stunts, anti-AI story elements and the introduction of Hayley Atwell; Ghost Protocol (2011) for Brad Bird’s stylistic heist work and boosted supporting cast; Rogue Nation (2015) for Christopher McQuarrie’s noir-tinged plotting and Rebecca Ferguson’s Ilsa Faust; and Fallout (2018) as the series high point, praised for multiple standout action sequences and heightened emotional stakes.

The piece notes franchise through-lines—Cruise’s Ethan Hunt as a recurring hero and the series’ balance of commercial and auteur impulses—and observes that Dead Reckoning was pitched as the first half of a two-part conclusion completed with The Final Reckoning, which Gaughan calls somewhat underwhelming but still enjoyable.

Key Topics

Culture, Mission: Impossible, Tom Cruise, Ethan Hunt, Christopher Mcquarrie, Rebecca Ferguson