Tom Cruise, a name synonymous with Hollywood blockbuster and daredevil stunts, launched his career from relatively humble beginnings. While appearances in earlier films provided valuable experience, Risky Business (1983) undeniably marked Tom Cruise’s first true lead role, catapulting him into the spotlight and solidifying his position as a rising star.
The Genesis of a Legend: Risky Business and its Impact
Before Cruise became Ethan Hunt, Maverick, or Jack Reacher, he was Joel Goodsen, a suburban teenager navigating the complexities of life, love, and a brief foray into entrepreneurial prostitution in Risky Business. While he had roles in movies like Endless Love (1981) and Taps (1981), those were supporting roles within ensemble casts. Risky Business, however, placed him front and center. The film’s success was undeniable, grossing over $63 million against a budget of just $6.2 million, a testament to its captivating story and Cruise’s compelling performance.
Cruise’s performance in Risky Business resonated with audiences, capturing the anxieties and aspirations of a generation. His portrayal of Joel, initially a straight-laced, ambitious student, transforming into a rebellious entrepreneur, challenged societal norms and celebrated youthful ambition. The film’s iconic scenes, particularly the dance sequence in his underwear to Bob Seger’s “Old Time Rock and Roll,” became instant classics, further cementing Cruise’s status as a cultural icon. Critically, the film also garnered praise, acknowledging Cruise’s acting prowess and the film’s sharp social commentary. Risky Business wasn’t just a box office success; it was a cultural phenomenon that announced the arrival of Tom Cruise as a leading man. This role provided him with the opportunity to showcase his range, transitioning from comedic moments to dramatic confrontations, demonstrating the versatility that would define his long and successful career. The film proved he could carry a movie and connect with a broad audience, a crucial step in becoming the international superstar he is today.
The Pre- Risky Business Landscape: Early Roles and Influences
While Risky Business unequivocally solidified Cruise’s leading man status, it’s important to acknowledge his earlier roles that helped shape his career. Endless Love (1981), though not a significant role, provided early exposure. Similarly, Taps (1981), a military drama featuring a young cast including Sean Penn and Timothy Hutton, allowed Cruise to hone his skills in a more serious context. These early roles, though smaller, were instrumental in providing Cruise with invaluable on-set experience and networking opportunities within the industry. They served as stepping stones, preparing him for the demands of a lead role and allowing him to learn from seasoned actors and directors. It’s also worth noting that these early roles offered glimpses of the charisma and screen presence that would become his trademark.
The Transition to Leading Man: The Significance of Losin’ It
Before Risky Business, Cruise also starred in Losin’ It (1983), a coming-of-age comedy. While Losin’ It was released in the same year as Risky Business, the latter clearly outperformed it in terms of critical acclaim and box office success. Although Losin’ It might be considered a precursor to his leading man status, Risky Business is undeniably the film that truly launched his career as a leading actor. The difference in the impact and reception of the two films underlines the importance of Risky Business in Cruise’s trajectory.
FAQs: Deep Dive into Tom Cruise’s Early Career
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a more comprehensive understanding of Tom Cruise’s early career and the significance of Risky Business.
FAQ 1: Was Endless Love Tom Cruise’s first film?
Yes, Endless Love (1981) marked Tom Cruise’s film debut. However, it was a small, supporting role and did not showcase his potential as a leading man.
FAQ 2: How did Taps contribute to Tom Cruise’s career?
Taps (1981) provided Cruise with a more substantial role and allowed him to work alongside established actors like George C. Scott and Timothy Hutton. This experience helped him develop his acting skills and gain valuable exposure.
FAQ 3: Why is Risky Business considered Tom Cruise’s breakthrough role?
Risky Business (1983) was the first film where Cruise played the central protagonist and carried the narrative. Its critical and commercial success catapulted him to stardom.
FAQ 4: What made Risky Business so popular?
The film’s relatable themes of teenage angst, rebellion, and ambition, combined with Cruise’s captivating performance and memorable scenes, resonated with audiences.
FAQ 5: Did Losin’ It contribute to Tom Cruise’s fame?
While Losin’ It (1983) also featured Cruise in a leading role, it did not achieve the same level of critical acclaim or commercial success as Risky Business.
FAQ 6: How old was Tom Cruise when he starred in Risky Business?
Tom Cruise was 21 years old when Risky Business was released in 1983.
FAQ 7: What impact did Risky Business have on Tom Cruise’s career trajectory?
Risky Business solidified Cruise’s position as a leading man and opened doors to a wide range of future roles, allowing him to become one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars.
FAQ 8: Who directed Risky Business, and what was his experience level?
Paul Brickman wrote and directed Risky Business. It was his directorial debut, adding to the film’s significance as a launching pad for both Brickman and Cruise.
FAQ 9: What are some of the most iconic scenes from Risky Business?
The most iconic scenes include Joel dancing in his underwear to “Old Time Rock and Roll,” the Princeton interview scene, and the film’s memorable ending.
FAQ 10: How much did Tom Cruise get paid for Risky Business?
While the exact figure isn’t publicly available, it’s safe to assume that Cruise’s salary for Risky Business was considerably lower than what he commands today. However, the film’s success significantly increased his market value.
FAQ 11: What type of acting training did Tom Cruise have before Risky Business?
Cruise attended acting classes in New York City before landing his first film roles. This training helped him develop the skills and techniques necessary to excel on screen.
FAQ 12: Are there any sequels or related projects to Risky Business?
While there haven’t been any direct sequels or spin-offs, the film’s impact on popular culture is undeniable. Many coming-of-age films have drawn inspiration from its themes and style.
The Enduring Legacy of Risky Business
Risky Business remains a significant film in Tom Cruise’s filmography, not just because it was his first true lead role, but because it demonstrated his potential for greatness. The film’s success launched him into superstardom and paved the way for a career filled with iconic roles and blockbuster hits. The image of a young Tom Cruise, dancing in his underwear, remains a timeless symbol of youthful rebellion and cinematic history, a testament to the power of a single role to define a career. The film’s impact is a clear indicator of how a single performance can cement an actor’s place in Hollywood history.