Tom Cruise's Western Drought: Is It Time for a Cowboy Comeback?

Tom Cruise has had his name attached to almost every type of movie you could imagine: action, science fiction, drama. He even made his appearance in a classic musical back in 1990 called "Days of Thunder."

So, you’d be forgiven if you’d missed that he's already in the Western world.

Tom Cruise's Western Movie

While some might believe Tom Cruise has made so many awesome hits, and he's become so recognizable, he has done very little work in the American west. However, if we're looking back, you'd miss his one and only appearance. While Cruise was in Young Guns it's pretty brief.

One could argue that the film he made was a hit but the western element to it was truly minor and it didn't bring out a character in the true essence of what western characters are all about. The only other appearance by the famous actor? That is in the epic romance movie "Far and Away." And he stars alongside his wife Nicole Kidman in this movie!

Also Read: Tom Cruise's Epic Olympic Stunt: Mission: Impossible Meets Paris 2024!

Far and Away:

In a story set against the back-drop of the American West, two Irish immigrants attempt to make a new life. The big problem is, Cruise, being the star is surrounded by so many memorable moments of his time working as an actor and is truly known for these awesome big, loud, intense roles! Cruise has this energy about him that seems like it’s something that might fit perfectly in a classic western film.

Fans would think he would be so at home and yet the movie came out in 1992 and was met with a lackluster reception! It might just seem odd! Cruise seems like he has a real sense for it! He really should make more westerns!

Also Read: Jeremy Renner clarifies his mission: Impossible Departure and Possible Return.

A Western Story

Tom-Cruise-in-Rain-Man-and-Magnolia Image

While many critics who viewed the film praised it for how beautiful the settings and the film’s images are.

This seems like the heart of so many Westerns: grand landscapes and truly stunning photography that seems like a hallmark of the Movies. These images show how beautiful America truly is.

While there were issues, the real essence is the same as classic Westerns. This was especially true with Cruise's presence. Critics did praise his performance in it.

The true success for someone like Cruise. His ability to become the central presence of any film! That's one reason why Clint Eastwood was so legendary! These powerful figures, stand out and help the story and visuals. Cruise was able to prove that he had the acting chops to play a Western, and yet, it was not exactly an overall success because other aspects of the movie seemed like they were a bit off, a true disappointment!

Also Read: Twisters Star Glen Powell breaks out Tom Cruise's Global Hit Rule for the Sequel.

The Case for Tom Cruise

Joseph whispering into Shannon's ear in Far And Away Image

One could look at a whole bunch of Tom Cruise films!

There's a reason he became such a star and he really shows up in his amazing and intense physical performances! He was constantly diving headfirst into making these memorable moments with many of the movies and the iconic stunts he’s done in so many of his big budget action movies like Mission: Impossible! He also puts his skills to work, being a remarkable and dedicated actor who gives us everything. It's like he has been giving the same dedication for decades now. What makes it even more inspiring is that Cruise is in many ways pushing boundaries to really help elevate these moments.

When you think about the biggest Western stars you've seen: Clint Eastwood!

He was a classic character from a past era.
There is so much about his personality and the characters he played.

They showed how actors could deliver something real! Cruise does it with his intense style and personality. Whether it's the well-known role as Ethan Hunt in "Mission: Impossible." Or going through something deep as Ron Kovic, in the film "Born on the Fourth of July." Cruise is capable of so much more, and this intensity he's had. The biggest stars have this in them to show everyone they're so memorable.

For those of you that have never gotten a chance to see "Far and Away," it looks like Tom Cruise is more than capable of bringing some serious swagger! Perhaps the star was not ready to be this awesome hero at that moment and with some of those earlier big budget flops. His commitment in other types of movies really makes the argument that it would be truly exceptional to see him on screen in this world.

Also Read: Epic Western "Horizon" by Kevin Costner opens to poor rotten Tomatoes Score.

Why Tom Cruise Needs A Western Revival:

Leonardo Di Caprio in The Revenant with Oscars in the background. Image

There are tons of exciting western stories that have been created. We also have a genre that has found its way to new life. If there are any stars who should be at the center, it would be Tom Cruise. You've seen stars like Chris Pine and Jamie Foxx take on these stories with exciting and different spins.

If you remember the "Hell or High Water" it showed an amazing performance!
"Django Unchained" was not only hilarious but compelling!

What really proves the case for a Western? A film could have big impact for actors, especially with an academy award. And Tom Cruise might be one of those actors that is due for that honor! Maybe all he needs is an epic Western role, such as a bleak, exciting tale about survival, something on par with what Leonardo DiCaprio was in, in "The Revenant."

The Western is an awesome genre that would not only bring back one of Hollywood's biggest stars. There is the opportunity for Tom Cruise to become a legendary western actor and have even more fame, respect, and hopefully the best achievement- an Academy Award! You never know! He is capable and it's something that will have fans getting excited as this might happen in the years ahead. Who knows maybe Cruise will return to this exciting, classic, and sometimes challenging genre!

input: