Tom Cruise Advises Glen Powell on Stunt Safety Before ‘Running Man’ Filming

Glen Powell recently shared insights from his conversation with Tom Cruise regarding stunt safety. This exchange took place before the filming of Powell’s upcoming film, “The Running Man.” During an appearance on “The Graham Norton Show,” Powell detailed the rigorous advice he received on how to perform stunts safely.

Tom Cruise’s Stunt Safety Advice

Powell described how Cruise, known for executing his own stunts, offered an extensive, two-and-a-half-hour phone call focused on stunt safety. Cruise’s practical guidance included insights on surviving dangerous action sequences. Powell mentioned that he had to abseil down a building while dealing with difficult conditions. He humorously recalled that a crew member was responsible for preventing him from crashing through a window during the scene.

Stunt Techniques and Running Tips

• Advice on Stunt Safety: Cruise emphasized that stunts are physically demanding and potentially painful.
• Running Tips: Powell shared that Cruise advised him to film himself running to improve his technique.

“You don’t look as cool as you think you do,” Cruise told Powell, a lesson that resonated with the actor. This mentorship highlighted the rigorous nature of stunt work and the discipline required for such performances.

The Importance of Stunts in Film

Powell emphasized that performing one’s own stunts is a privilege and essential for authentic storytelling in movies. According to him, conveying realistic action is crucial for viewer engagement and justifies the ticket prices. He noted that actors need to show commitment to their roles to earn audience support.

The Upcoming Film: “The Running Man”

Directed by Edgar Wright, “The Running Man” is set for release on November 14. The film takes place in a dystopian future where a reality show forces contestants to survive against professional assassins. Powell stars as Ben Richards, who competes in the deadly game to save his sick daughter.

The film’s narrative follows his character’s struggle against the system while gaining public support. The cast includes notable actors such as Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, and Emilia Jones.

Tom Cruise’s Continued Support

Since their collaboration in “Top Gun: Maverick,” Cruise has been a strong supporter of Powell’s career. Recently, he praised Powell during a screening of “The Running Man,” showcasing their strong bond. This mentorship not only reflects the camaraderie between actors but also highlights the value of learning from industry veterans.

As Powell prepares for the release of “The Running Man,” his gratitude toward Cruise remains evident. The lessons learned on safety and performance will undoubtedly aid him in his action-packed career.