High-octane action, high drama… and a slightly high running time. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (Part two sequel of Dead Reckoning Part One) will be in cinemas nationwide from 21 May 2025.
Rated 12A
Let’s face it – no one goes into a Mission: Impossible film expecting Shakespeare. But even by popcorn blockbuster standards, The Final Reckoning delivers a dizzying roller-coaster of explosions, impossible stunts, dramatic glares… and not much else. As I am writing this review, Tom Cruise prepares to surprise London once again with one of his stunts at the global premiere taking place this evening at Leicester Square.
At nearly three hours long, this eighth (yes, eighth!) outing sees Tom Cruise’s seemingly ageless Ethan Hunt doing what he does best: saving the world, defying gravity, and somehow still looking fantastic while sprinting across train carriages and leaping out of aircraft. This time, we get submarines, airborne brawls, underwater panic attacks and – for reasons that will remain mysterious – a fair bit of action in his pants.
The plot? Best not to overthink it. Something about AI, global security, rogue agents, and a Very Bad Villain. But really, it’s all a set-up for the stunts – and to be fair, they are impressive. Cruise, now 62, does his own death-defying feats with an energy most of us can only dream of. The standout? A jaw-clenching sequence inside a submarine that made me feel claustrophobic and mildly seasick – the fact that I was sitting in the fourth row at a packed Cineworld iMAX Leicester Square last night certainly did not help.
Still, despite the adrenaline, it’s a film that could easily have shed 40 minutes. Character development is thin, dialogue is peppered with cliché, and the emotional stakes feel forced. Yet the London audience seemed to be having a blast – chuckles at the comedic bits, gasps at the daredevil moves, and even applause as the credits rolled. You’ve got to respect a film that knows what it is.
Is it suitable for kids?
At a 12A, it’s fine for older tweens and teens – though younger children may find some of the intense scenes (and the sheer noise) overwhelming. There’s no major gore or offensive language, but there are plenty of high-stakes moments that may be a bit much for sensitive viewers.
The trailer
Final verdict?
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is thrilling in places, bloated in others, and unashamedly Tom Cruise-centric. Perfect for action-loving teens or mums who enjoy a big screen spectacle with a side of escapism – just maybe not the ideal family movie night.
Tickets available at major UK cinemas. Bring snacks, a cushion, and maybe a cuppa in a thermos – it’s a long ride.
London Mums Magazine Rating: 6.5/10
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