During his visit to Japan to promote Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, Tom Cruise, along with director Christopher McQuarrie, held a special conversation with Godzilla Minus One director Takashi Yamazaki. The exchange was recorded at SHIBUYA SKY, a rooftop observatory overlooking Shibuya, Tokyo.

A Rooftop Meeting of Cinematic Minds

Tom Cruise approached Yamazaki with a warm smile and a firm handshake, immediately offering praise:

“I'm a huge fan of yours! Your films are phenomenal.”

Their dialogue unfolded against the panoramic skyline of Shibuya Scramble Square, making the moment even more cinematic.

United by Oscar Recognition

Both directors had a common accolade—nomination for Best Visual Effects at the 96th Academy Awards:

Yamazaki’s Godzilla Minus One won the award

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning was also nominated in the same category

Yamazaki mentioned that he had attended the Japan Premiere Screening on May 6, 2024, watching the film alongside Cruise and the cast. Deeply moved, he reflected:

“It felt like a perfect culmination of the Mission: Impossible series.
The way impossible feats were portrayed so convincingly—it was inspiring.
There were moments I truly felt jealous as a fellow filmmaker.”

Inspired by Friendly Competition

Now working on his next Godzilla film, Yamazaki revealed:

“After watching Mission, I went home and re-read my script.
I couldn’t stand the idea of being outdone.”

Cruise responded enthusiastically:

“That’s exactly the kind of healthy rivalry we need!
After seeing your work, we do the same. Now it’s your turn.”

Director McQuarrie nodded in agreement, smiling.

Personal Impact and Character Depth

Yamazaki noted the emotional resonance of Cruise’s portrayal of Ethan Hunt:

“Ethan’s struggles gave the film real emotional weight.
I could see your story in those scenes. It moved me.”

Cruise, visibly touched, replied:

“Thank you for understanding,”
before warmly embracing Yamazaki in appreciation.

Theater as a Shared Mission

Toward the end, the conversation turned to the importance of the theatrical experience.

Yamazaki stressed:

“We need to get audiences back into cinemas.
There’s no substitute for seeing a movie in a theater.”

Cruise added:

“Watching together on the big screen is a beautiful experience.
Our mission is to make the best possible films—and to push each other to achieve that.”

In unison, they declared:

“Let’s bring people back to the theater!” (Yamazaki)
“That’s our real mission!” (Cruise)

Finally, Cruise concluded with a sincere message:

“Talking with you has fulfilled a dream.
If there’s anything we can do to help, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Tom Cruise × Takashi Yamazaki's Conversation

Where did the conversation take place?
At SHIBUYA SKY, the rooftop observatory of Shibuya Scramble Square, Tokyo.

What was the purpose of the meeting?
It was part of promotional activities for Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, offering a candid dialogue between Cruise, McQuarrie, and Yamazaki.

Which award did they share a nomination for?
At the 96th Academy Awards, both Godzilla Minus One and Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning were nominated for Best Visual Effects. Yamazaki’s film won the category.

What did Yamazaki say about the film?
He praised it as a flawless culmination of the Mission: Impossible series, and admitted it inspired him to revise his own screenplay with renewed motivation.

How did Cruise respond?
Cruise emphasized their shared passion and mutual influence, embracing Yamazaki and encouraging future creative excellence.

Tom Cruise, Takashi Yamazaki, and Christopher McQuarrie meet at SHIBUYA SKY

Source : ORICON NEWS