UPDATE: Glen Powell reveals that Tom Cruise provided life-saving safety tips ahead of filming the action thriller The Running Man, now in theaters. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Powell shared how Cruise’s experience in high-stakes action sequences helped him navigate the film’s demanding stunts.
As Powell prepares for intense night shoots, he emphasized the critical nature of Cruise’s advice, jokingly referring to it as a crash course on “how not to die.” This comes at a time when the action genre continues to push boundaries, making safety a top priority for actors involved in physically demanding roles.
“Most of the advice I got [from Cruise] was really just about how not to die on this movie,” Powell stated, underscoring the impact of Cruise’s extensive experience in action films. The Top Gun: Maverick star has long been recognized for his dedication to safety and performance during high-energy stunts.
Powell expressed his gratitude for having Cruise as a mentor, noting, “The reality is there’s probably only one person on the planet that can give this type of advice, and it’s him.” His acknowledgment of Cruise’s willingness to share knowledge reflects a supportive community within Hollywood’s action film sector.
In his guidance, Cruise highlighted the risks associated with performing stunts when fatigued. “He was just always telling me, ‘Don’t do some of these stunts late at night when you’re tired,’” Powell explained. The importance of timing in relation to safety was a recurring theme in their discussions, especially concerning early-morning or late-night shoots.
“People get hurt more often when shooting at five in the morning [because] you’re rushing to make it before sunrise,” Cruise warned, demonstrating his commitment to not just the performance but also the well-being of his fellow actors.
As The Running Man hits theaters, Powell’s experiences shed light on the often unseen challenges actors face in the action genre. With stunts becoming more elaborate, the need for safety awareness is more important than ever.
This developing story highlights the importance of mentorship and safety in the film industry, particularly for those tackling high-octane roles. As audiences flock to see The Running Man, the collaboration between Powell and Cruise serves as a reminder of the human element behind the explosive action on screen.
Stay tuned for more updates on this story as it unfolds and for insights into the making of The Running Man.