In the \’80s, Tom Cruise was not just another actor; he was an entire phenomenon. He defined a generation\’s dreams, fashion, and career decisions. Before the \’80s, he had a couple of minor roles to his name that generated excitement in his future. This article will look at the decade that fashioned Tom Cruise into a global superstar, his timeless roles, the cultural impact of these films, and the evolution of his image.
From Risky Business to Box Office Gold: Cruise\’s Breakthrough Roles
This segment covers the films that made Cruise a household name: those very movies that marked his rise to stardom. What were his breakout roles? Let\’s take a look.
Risky Business (1983): The Dance Moves That Defined a Generation
The dance sequence in Risky Business is widely known. It encapsulated rebellion and capitalistic desires. It was, however, also a defining moment for Cruise: Risky Business` success with over $63 million at the box office was a tall order then!
Top Gun (1986): Flying High into Super Stardom
Top Gun generated a fall out into an entire culture. The film led to military recruitment. Some claim that enlistments increased after the movie. Cruise\’s character, Maverick, became an icon. And those aerial action scenes? Simply breathtaking. Also, don\’t forget the killer soundtrack.
Cocktail (1988): A Change of Persona?
Cocktail was a huge box office hit but carried with it mixed reviews. So, was Cocktail a brilliant move or a wrong turn for Cruise? A rather fascinating role; probably not all that intriguing.
The Cruise Effect: Fashion, Music, and Cultural Impact
Cruise had a big impact on 80s culture, music, and fashion. The question is, how big was his impact? Let\’s find.
Fashion Trends: From Aviator Sunglasses to Preppy Chic
The style of Cruise in his movies became a trend. People began donning aviator sunglasses because of Top Gun. The preppy look from Risky Business was also a huge trend. Cruise\’s choices truly set the fashion.
Soundtrack Superstardom: Music That Defined the Era
Top Gun and Cocktail soundtracks were immensely popular. Songs from those movies enjoyed chart success. These films influenced the music culture of the 80s.
Beyond the Screen: Cruise as a Cultural Icon
Cruise became something else besides an actor. He bore the traits of ambition and charisma. He personified the American dream. People looked up to him.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Star
Cruise worked very hard. He was dedicated. What went on behind the camera? Lets find out.
Method Acting and Stunt Work: Pushing the Limits
Cruise often did his own stunts. He was committed to his roles. This showed in his 80s movies. That commitment made him a mega star.
Working with Renowned Directors: Shaping His Craft
Cruise worked with great directors. For example, he worked with Martin Scorsese. These collaborations changed his acting style and career.
The Business of Hollywood: Navigating the Industry
Cruise was good at the industry. He was very well connected with the Hollywood system, making it work for him and thus succeeding in it. He was indeed clever.
Elsewhere than the Blockbusters: In-Depth and Outspreading
What roles could Cruise have, beyond the action star? There are much in store for him as an actor.
The Color of Money (1986): A Showcase for the Dramatic Talent
It wasn\’t just in The Color of Money where Cruise showed his perfect acting skills in the drama. He partnered with Paul Newman and Martin Scorsese. The two could even prove that he had talent.
Rain Man (1988) was a minor role, but it still marched forever in the history of film.
Though Cruise has a minor supporting role in Rain Man, it can be seen that he has what it takes to pull off a serious film, for which the film indeed was a success.
Early career decisions: reflecting on long-term projection.
Some of Cruise\’s early films held promise, foreshadowing the big things to come. He was thinking far into the future.
Conclusion
Cruise made a huge mark in movies and culture in the 80s. With iconic roles in films, he also pioneered fashion and music changes. Plus, all his work in the 80s laid the foundation for him being a megastar.