Kenneth Branagh Says Tom Cruise’s Best Acting Days Are Still Ahead: “A Golden Age of Performance Beckons”

Tom Cruise has been a box office king for decades, but according to Kenneth Branagh, the world still hasn’t seen everything he’s capable of. As Cruise prepares to receive the prestigious BFI Fellowship — the highest honor from the British Film Institute — Branagh shared powerful reflections on an actor he believes has been wildly underestimated.

Speaking to The Times of London ahead of the ceremony, Branagh pushed back against the idea that Cruise is just a movie star. “If he ever tires of wowing the world with action, he’s going to surprise those who view him as only a movie star,” Branagh said. “What he’s done with ‘Mission’ and ‘Top Gun’ is unique — cinematic entertainment with a serious intent to give you a wonderful time at the movies. But he’s an underestimated actor — for whom a golden age of performance beckons.”

It’s a huge endorsement coming from Branagh, who starred opposite Cruise in 2008’s “Valkyrie” and has spent years watching the actor’s relentless work ethic up close. He also revealed Cruise’s reputation on UK film sets is just as impressive as his on-screen presence. “He finds a quiet corner, enjoys the atmosphere and is always gracious when he gets spotted,” Branagh said. “He’s a natural giggler and just enjoys what he does so much, and that’s infectious.”

Cruise, for his part, reacted with humility to the BFI announcement. “I’m truly honoured,” he said. “I’ve been making films in the UK for over 40 years and have no plans to stop.”

As Cruise enters this new chapter of his career, it’s clear he’s not just collecting accolades — he’s setting the stage for what could be the most thrilling performances of his life.