Tom Cruise has explained why he continues to prioritize theatrical filmmaking despite the growing influence of television and streaming platforms. In a new interview ahead of Digger, the actor said his preference for movies is rooted in the communal experience of watching a film in a theater rather than opposition to Netflix or television.
Cruise’s comments also provide a rare look at how he approaches filmmaking behind the scenes. The actor acknowledged that his reputation for being intensely involved on sets is accurate, saying he expects a great deal from the people working with him while also holding himself to the same standard.
The discussion comes as Cruise prepares to lead Digger, his first major non-action star vehicle in years. Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, the film puts Cruise in the role of an eccentric billionaire facing an ecological catastrophe and represents a significant departure from the action-heavy roles that have defined much of his recent career.
Tom Cruise Explains Why Cinema Still Matters to Him
Speaking with GQ, Cruise made clear that his preference for theatrical movies should not be interpreted as hostility toward streaming.
“Movies are—this is about humanity. I have nothing against cable or TV or Netflix,”
Cruise said. He explained that what continues to attract him to cinema is the experience of audiences gathering together in the same room to watch a story.
For Cruise, that collective experience is an important part of what makes filmmaking special. His comments come at a time when theatrical releases and streaming platforms increasingly compete for audiences, while major filmmakers and actors continue to debate how movies should reach viewers.
Cruise has also remained an outspoken advocate for the theatrical experience. His recent work on Top Gun: Maverick helped reinforce his position as one of Hollywood’s strongest supporters of large-scale cinema, while his continued involvement in major theatrical productions demonstrates that he has no immediate plans to abandon the big screen.
Cruise Admits His Intense Reputation Is Real
Cruise was similarly direct when discussing his reputation for being demanding on movie sets. Rather than dismissing reports of his intensity, the actor said he is aware of how he works and makes that expectation clear to collaborators before production begins.
“I work hard, and people that work with me, they know. I expect a lot, and I’m upfront about it,”
Cruise told GQ. He even joked about the long-standing perception, telling potential collaborators, “The rumors are true,” before asking what kind of experience they want to have.
The actor explained that his intensity comes from wanting to understand filmmaking as deeply as possible. He said that when something interests him, he wants to learn it thoroughly and move through uncertainty as quickly as possible so the team can develop the necessary skills.
Cruise also described himself as someone who feels responsible for the broader filmmaking process, not simply his own performance. His approach involves preparation and planning, but he also values communication and collaboration once cameras are rolling. Variety’s report on the interview similarly notes that Cruise prefers speaking directly with crew members rather than relying on lengthy written communication.
Digger Gives Cruise a Different Kind of Challenge
That philosophy will be tested in Digger, which marks Cruise’s collaboration with Iñárritu and his first major dramatic star vehicle outside the action genre in several years. Cruise plays Digger Rockwell, an immensely powerful billionaire who attempts to convince the world that he can save humanity from a disaster connected to his own actions.
Iñárritu has described the role as a demanding transformation for Cruise, who appears in the film with a different physical appearance and characterization than audiences are accustomed to seeing. Variety reports that the director spent years developing the project and viewed Cruise as essential to bringing the central character to life.
The film also features Riz Ahmed, Sandra Hüller, John Goodman, Michael Stuhlbarg, Jesse Plemons, Sophie Wilde and Emma D’Arcy. Digger is scheduled to arrive in theaters on October 2, 2026, giving Cruise another major theatrical release as he continues his long-running commitment to cinema.
