Glen Powell, an actor known for his role in ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’ has shared how Tom Cruise, the iconic action star, provided extensive safety and survival guidance before he began filming for ‘The Running Man.’
Powell discussed the process during an appearance on ‘The Graham Norton Show,’ revealing that Cruise had given him a two-and-a-half-hour call filled with detailed advice on how to stay safe and perform realistically in intense action scenes. The actor described the call as a crucial moment, which included running lessons and safety tips that helped him prepare for the demanding stunt work involved in the film.
Powell also recalled a particularly intense stunt where he had to abseil down eight stories of a building in freezing conditions, fully clothed in a harness. He described the challenge of being checked by a crew member throughout the process, which involved looking up his skirt during the takes. Despite the discomfort, Powell found the experience eye-opening and learned the importance of discipline and physical preparedness from Cruise.
Cruise’s mentorship extended beyond just survival tips. He emphasized the importance of making the action sequences look authentic and the physical toll it can take. Powell highlighted how Cruise’s experiences, including his past injuries, provided him with a realistic perspective on the risks involved in stunt work.
The film ‘The Running Man,’ directed by Edgar Wright, is set for release in theaters on November 14. It follows a working-class man who is persuaded to enter a deadly competition by a charming but ruthless producer, leading to a dangerous and thrilling journey of survival and defiance against a system that is addicted to watching him fall.
Powell’s collaboration with Cruise has been a significant milestone in his career. Since working together on ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’ Cruise has been actively supporting Powell’s growth as an actor and stunt performer. Their shared commitment to excellence and safety in the industry highlights a strong bond between the two stars, with Cruise providing invaluable guidance that has helped Powell navigate the challenges of intense action roles.