One of the most impressive action sequences in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One involved Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and Grace (Hayley Atwell) navigating a train while the wagons teetered on a destroyed rail segment. Surprisingly, this sequence was originally planned to be as long as a short movie, which would have significantly extended the sequel’s runtime to nearly four hours. Eddie Hamilton, the editor who dedicated months to working on the film, discussed the process of condensing the train sequence in a recent interview with Variety:
In our initial version, the train sequence lasted around an hour and a half. However, we managed to trim it down to approximately 50 minutes for the final cut.
The train sequence in Christopher McQuarrie’s film serves as a critical point leading up to the climax. Throughout the movie, Ethan Hunt pursues an artifact that holds immense importance for the world’s future. Hunt receives information that Alanna Mistopolis (Vanessa Kirby) will transport the artifact on a heavily guarded train. Despite the obstacles, Hunt always finds a way to reach his target. This time, his unorthodox methods involve a daring stunt performed by Cruise himself, who parachutes onto the train after driving a motorcycle off a cliff. This breathtaking stunt was executed six times to capture the perfect shot.
Once aboard the train, Ethan must wait for the opportune moment to retrieve the device and escape before Alanna’s henchmen can eliminate him. However, Gabriel (Esai Morales) has already anticipated Hunt’s moves and sets off an explosion that causes the train to plunge into a river. Now, Hunt and Grace face a race against time as they navigate the tilted compartments, desperately trying to avoid a deadly fall.
Image via Paramount Pictures
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What Lies Ahead for Ethan Hunt?
Although the story of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One concludes on its own terms, the IMF team fails to stop Gabriel. In the upcoming second part of the story, slated for release on June 28, next summer, Ethan Hunt will return to confront one of his most formidable adversaries for the final time. Directed once again by McQuarrie, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two is expected to mark Cruise’s farewell to the iconic character that has defined his career.
For FilmSweep’s interview with Christopher McQuarrie, please refer to the video below:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about action-packed
Q: How long was the train sequence originally planned to be in “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning”?
A: The train sequence was initially set to last as much as a short movie, spanning around an hour and a half in the first iteration. However, it was later condensed to approximately 50 minutes for the finished movie.
Q: Who performed the death-defying motorcycle stunt in the train sequence?
A: Tom Cruise, who portrays Ethan Hunt in the film, performed the death-defying motorcycle stunt himself. He drove a motorcycle off a cliff and parachuted onto the moving train, repeating the stunt six times to capture the perfect shot.
Q: What is the significance of the train sequence in the film’s storyline?
A: The train sequence in “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning” serves as a pivotal moment leading up to the film’s climax. Ethan Hunt learns that the artifact he has been chasing will be on the train, and he must find a way to retrieve it despite heavy security and the impending threat of the train’s destruction.
Q: Will there be a sequel to “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning”?
A: Yes, there will be a sequel titled “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two.” It is set to be released on June 28 next summer and will continue Ethan Hunt’s story as he faces one of his deadliest enemies for the final time.
Q: Is “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two” expected to be Tom Cruise’s last portrayal of Ethan Hunt?
A: Yes, it is likely that “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two” will mark Tom Cruise’s last time portraying the iconic character of Ethan Hunt, making it a significant installment in his career.
