Glen Powell is making waves in Hollywood, and many are starting to draw comparisons between him and the legendary Tom Cruise. Their paths crossed in the blockbuster hit “Top Gun: Maverick,” where Powell not only shared the screen with Cruise but also received invaluable mentorship from the iconic actor.
Powell’s journey to stardom has been a gradual climb, reminiscent of Cruise’s own rise to fame. After years of taking on smaller roles, Powell’s performance in “Top Gun: Maverick” catapulted him into the spotlight. He has since taken on leading roles, including his recent performance in the romantic comedy “Anyone But You,” alongside Sydney Sweeney.
The success of “Anyone But You” has been remarkable, grossing around $220 million against a budget of just $25 million. This unexpected hit has solidified Powell’s status as a leading man in Hollywood. Following this success, he starred in “Twisters,” which opened to an impressive $80.5 million, further establishing his presence in the action genre.
Powell has openly expressed his admiration for Cruise, stating that he aspires to have a career similar to his mentor’s. During their time together on the set of “Top Gun: Maverick,” Powell confided in Cruise about his ambitions. Cruise encouraged him to pursue the roles he truly wanted, leading to the creation of Powell’s character, Hangman.
The influence of Cruise extends beyond just acting. Powell has taken inspiration from Cruise’s passion for aviation, which led him to produce the documentary “The Blue Angels,” showcasing the daring feats of U.S. Navy pilots. Powell’s newfound love for aviation mirrors Cruise’s own fascination, which was a driving force behind his involvement in “Top Gun.”
In terms of physical appearance, Powell has also started to mirror Cruise’s iconic look. With his megawatt smile and thick hair, Powell has transformed his image over the years, even sharing moments of twinning with Cruise at events. This resemblance has not gone unnoticed, with fans humorously suggesting that Cruise is seeking a “host body” in Powell.
Powell’s commitment to action films aligns him closely with Cruise’s career trajectory. After “Top Gun,” he continued to embrace the action genre with “Twisters.” He credits his experience on “Top Gun” as a significant learning opportunity, equipping him with the skills needed to succeed in big-budget films.
Looking ahead, Powell is set to star in the remake of “The Running Man,” a role that promises to challenge him physically and mentally. His willingness to perform his own stunts places him in the same league as Cruise, who is renowned for his dedication to action sequences.
Powell’s desire to learn from the best is evident in his approach to acting. He shared that Cruise once invited him to a private screening of a six-hour video on acting techniques, emphasizing the importance of mastering the craft. This dedication to learning has helped Powell refine his skills and develop a deeper understanding of filmmaking.
Moreover, Powell has adopted a similar philosophy to Cruise regarding the types of films he wants to pursue. He has expressed a desire to avoid Oscar-bait films, focusing instead on projects that resonate with audiences and have commercial viability. This strategic approach mirrors Cruise’s own career choices, which have often prioritized entertainment value over awards recognition.
In a landscape where many young actors are drawn to franchise films, Powell has made a conscious decision to steer clear of such commitments. By avoiding the pitfalls of the franchise machine, he aims to maintain his individuality and continue to build a diverse filmography.
The success of “Anyone But You” serves as a testament to Powell’s star power. The film’s unexpected box office performance has caught the attention of Hollywood, signaling that Powell’s time in the spotlight has arrived sooner than anticipated. His ability to connect with audiences and generate buzz around his projects is a hallmark of a true movie star.
As Powell continues to navigate the complexities of Hollywood, he remains grounded in his appreciation for the theatrical experience. In an era where streaming dominates, he understands the importance of movie theaters and the communal experience they provide. This perspective aligns with Cruise’s own advocacy for the theatrical experience, further solidifying their connection.
In conclusion, Glen Powell is on a trajectory that mirrors the early career of Tom Cruise. With a combination of talent, charisma, and a strategic approach to his film choices, Powell is positioning himself as a leading man in Hollywood. As he continues to take on diverse roles and embrace the action genre, the signs are clear: Glen Powell aspires to be the next Tom Cruise.
Source: Various sources
