The first reactions are in for “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” and critics are calling it a thrilling and emotional end to the franchise. The movie, also known as Mission: Impossible 8, had its press premiere ahead of its screening at the Cannes Film Festival on May 14.
Film critics are praising the movie’s stunts, pacing, and performances, with many calling it one of the most exciting entries in the series. Courtney Howard described it as an “exhilarating adrenaline rush” and said director Christopher McQuarrie and star Tom Cruise have crafted a “gold standard actioner for the ages.”
Simon Thompson called it “whip-smart and razor-sharp,” while Zach Pope said it’s a “riveting and perfect finale” with some of the best stunts in the franchise. Others praised its emotion and scale, even if a few pointed out the film’s heavy use of exposition in the first act.
The story picks up two months after Dead Reckoning (2023), as Ethan Hunt races to stop a powerful AI known as “the Entity.” The cast includes Hayley Atwell, Pom Klementieff, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Angela Bassett, and more.
While some viewers found the opening slow, most agree that the film finishes strong. Leo Rydel called it a “full speed adrenaline rush” and Landon Johnson said it’s a “three-hour blitz of chaos, precision, and pure adrenaline.”
The film will screen out of competition at Cannes, marking Tom Cruise’s third appearance at the festival. With massive expectations and early praise, The Final Reckoning could be a fitting send-off to one of the most iconic action franchises in cinema history.
