Tom Cruise has a reputation for being a perfectionist, and for a good reason. The man loves to learn and refuses to cut corners no matter what. This attitude makes him the most authentic screen entertainer in the world. The ‘Mission: Impossible ‘ star can do it all, be it selling real estate, playing guitar, or flying fighter jets. 

In the 2004 film ‘Collateral,’ Tom Cruise played an assassin. It was unlike any role he had played before. But instead of being intimidated, the talented star would step up and master the required skill set for the movie. The director, Michael Mann, was impressed with his star’s versatility and ability to get lost in the character’s skin.

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Tom Cruise Mastered His Shooting Skills For ‘Collateral’ 

Tom Cruise wasn’t the first choice for ‘Collateral.’ The project was envisioned with Russell Crowe and filmmaker Michael Mann. However, Crowe didn’t stay long on the project. It led to Cruise being cast as Vincent, the part Crowe walked away from. After being cast as Vincent, an elite assassin, the ‘Jerry Maguire’ star decided to sharpen his skills with firearms.

Tom Cruise trained in stealth by posing as a FedEx agent. The actor trained in LA Country Sheriffs’ combat ranges to become a better shot with a weapon. The director Michael Mann praised his actor, saying, “Tom is extraordinarily skilled at everything atheletic that he tries.” Mann further praised him in a Deadline article, noting his ‘Collateral’ actor’s dedication to fight sequences.

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Box Office Performance Of Tom Cruise’s ‘Collateral’

Written by Stuart Beattie and directed by Michael Mann, ‘Collateral’ made $220.9 million worldwide against its $65 million budget. The film stars Tom Cruise as Vincent, an assassin who takes the cab driver Max (Jamie Foxx) hostage over an unfurnished night. 

‘Collateral’ became an instant hit with critics and audiences, earning both actors some of the finest career reviews. Tom Cruise’s turn as the grey-haired antagonist wowed everyone alike. The film stars Jada Pinkett Smith, Mark Ruffalo, Peter Berg, and Bruce McGill in supporting roles.

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