Ranking the "Mission: Impossible" Movies: From Worst to Best
For almost 30 years, Tom Cruise’s "Mission: Impossible" franchise has delivered some of the most thrilling, spy-centric adventures in Hollywood, rivaling even the legendary James Bond series. With its intricate plots, clever twists, and heart-pounding action sequences, each installment brings its own flair to the table. As we anticipate the upcoming finale, let’s take a trip down memory lane and rank the eight films—from the least compelling to the absolute must-sees.
1. "Mission: Impossible 2" (2000)
Director John Woo’s sequel takes the bottom spot, earning a lackluster 57% on Rotten Tomatoes. While it attempts to amp up the action, the film falters with a convoluted plot that revolves around a bromance gone wrong and a poorly developed villain, played by Dougray Scott. It’s a flashy spectacle filled with balletic visuals, but ultimately falls prey to silly storytelling that leaves audiences wondering where the intelligence and nuance went.
2. "Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning" (2023)
Serving as a setup for what many hope will be an explosive finale, "Dead Reckoning" struggles under the weight of its own aspirations. The film features Ethan Hunt, played by Cruise, navigating convolutions rather than delivering edge-of-your-seat thrills. With an underwhelming villain in Gabriel (Esai Morales) and sequences that feel drawn out—like the much-anticipated Rome car chase—it ultimately doesn’t match the intensity of its predecessors.
3. "Mission: Impossible III" (2006)
J.J. Abrams’ entry may be considered a mixed bag, combining humor and high stakes but sometimes feeling like a rerun of his own TV series, "Alias." Yet, it introduces one of the best adversaries in the franchise—Philip Seymour Hoffman—who delivers a chilling performance that elevates the entire film. Ethan’s emotional stakes resonate through his relationship with Julia Meade (Michelle Monaghan), making it a solid yet somewhat uneven chapter.
4. "Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning" (2025)
This upcoming installment is already a subject of discussion among fans, and its intricate setup may not satisfy everyone. While its action sequences will likely be spectacular, early impressions suggest a bloated narrative that lacks the briskness the franchise is known for. However, anticipation surrounds its climactic moments, which promise to be thrilling enough to forgive slower pacing earlier on.
5. "Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol" (2011)
Directed by Brad Bird, this film revitalizes the franchise with its blend of humor and heart-pounding action. Introducing Jeremy Renner as a supporting character, "Ghost Protocol" showcases a perfect balance between nail-biting intensity and character-driven storytelling. Shouldering the burden of reinvigorating the series, it proves to be a turning point for Ethan Hunt and solidifies the franchise’s commitment to quality.
6. "Mission: Impossible" (1996)
The original film, helmed by Brian De Palma, has an aura of nostalgia that can’t be overlooked. Though it may seem quaint compared to its successors, it laid the groundwork for everything that follows. The vault heist remains iconic, capturing the essence of espionage and intrigue, while introducing audiences to Ethan Hunt, a character who would evolve over the years. Its clever narrative twists have set the standard for the franchise.
7. "Mission: Impossible — Fallout" (2018)
This film takes the franchise’s formula and elevates it to new heights with expertly crafted action sequences. Henry Cavill brings magnetic tension as August Walker, amplifying the stakes for Ethan Hunt. Each action set piece—from the HALO jump to the intense helicopter chase—represents a well-calibrated blend of originality and established franchise flair. Critics laud "Fallout" as a culmination of everything audiences love about the series.
8. "Mission: Impossible — Rogue Nation" (2015)
Widely regarded as one of the best entries, Christopher McQuarrie’s "Rogue Nation" introduces Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson) as a formidable new character who adds complexity to the plot. Its breathtaking set pieces, such as the opera assassination and underwater vault sequence, showcase not just action but also stunning storytelling. Each moment feels crafted to perfection, making it a standout film in the espionage genre.
As the series approaches its much-anticipated conclusion, fans are left wondering how Ethan Hunt’s journey will end. With such a rich tapestry of storytelling and unforgettable action sequences, the "Mission: Impossible" franchise remains an iconic staple of modern cinema. Each film offers its own unique charm, but which one holds a special place in your heart? Grab your spy gear and prepare for the ultimate cinematic ride!
