Tom Cruise Isn’t Just a Movie Star – Kenneth Branagh Reveals the ‘Underestimated’ Actor You Didn’t Know

As Tom Cruise prepares to receive the British Film Institute’s highest accolade, the BFI Fellowship, longtime collaborator Kenneth Branagh is urging Hollywood — and audiences everywhere — to rethink what they think they know about the iconic actor. Known for redefining the action genre through adrenaline-fueled franchises like Top Gun and Mission: Impossible, Cruise’s status as a box office legend is unquestioned. But Branagh insists there’s far more depth to the man behind the stunts.

In an interview with The Times of London, Branagh — who co-starred with Cruise in the 2008 historical thriller Valkyrie — challenged the narrative that Cruise is simply a movie star. “What he’s done with ‘Mission’ and ‘Top Gun’ is unique — cinematic entertainment with a serious intent to give you a wonderful time at the movies,” Branagh said. “But he’s an underestimated actor — for whom a golden age of performance beckons.”

Branagh’s words come at a pivotal moment in Cruise’s career, as he receives a lifetime achievement award from one of the most prestigious institutions in cinema. Despite his global fame and decades-long domination of the box office, Cruise has often been more celebrated for spectacle than substance. Branagh, however, believes audiences have yet to see the full extent of Cruise’s acting prowess — a phase that may still be ahead.

Reflecting on their time working together in the UK, Branagh described Cruise as a warm, grounded presence off-camera. “He finds a quiet corner, enjoys the atmosphere and is always gracious when he gets spotted. He’s a natural giggler and just enjoys what he does so much and that’s infectious.”

In response to the BFI honor, Cruise expressed gratitude and a clear commitment to his craft: “I’m truly honoured. I’ve been making films in the UK for over 40 years and have no plans to stop.”

With admiration from peers like Branagh and an unwavering passion for storytelling, Tom Cruise may be stepping into a new chapter — one where his talent takes center stage, beyond the explosions and high-speed chases.