Glen Powell, the prominent actor recognized for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, has made a return to the action genre with his latest film, The Running Man. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Powell revealed that he received invaluable safety advice from none other than Tom Cruise prior to the commencement of filming.
Powell described Cruise’s insights as a crash course in “how not to die” during the intense action sequences. Given Cruise’s extensive experience in performing stunts, Powell found his guidance particularly beneficial. “Most of the advice I got from Cruise was really just about how not to die on this movie,” Powell stated, underscoring the importance of safety during physically demanding scenes.
The advice came at a crucial time as Powell prepared for the high-octane stunts in The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright. The film features numerous challenging sequences, particularly during nighttime shoots. “The reality is there’s probably only one person on the planet that can give this type of advice, and it’s him,” Powell acknowledged, expressing gratitude that Cruise is always “one call away” for guidance.
Powell recounted specific warnings from Cruise about the risks involved in performing stunts while fatigued. He emphasized that Cruise advised against undertaking complex stunts late at night, particularly when exhaustion sets in. “He was just always telling me, ‘Don’t do some of these stunts late at night when you’re tired,’” Powell explained.
During their discussions, Cruise inquired about the film’s shooting schedule, particularly its nighttime components. Powell noted that Cruise highlighted the increased likelihood of injury during early morning or late-night shoots, where rushed conditions can lead to accidents. “Your body is extremely tired at night. People get hurt more often when shooting at five in the morning because you’re rushing to make it before sunrise,” Powell reiterated.
The importance of Cruise’s advice reflects a broader concern within the film industry regarding stunt safety. As productions push the limits of action and adventure, the need for actors to prioritize safety becomes increasingly vital. Powell’s acknowledgment of Cruise’s mentorship serves as a reminder of the value of experience in high-stakes environments.
Currently, The Running Man is in theaters, and Powell’s dedication to safety and preparation is evident in his approach to the film’s demanding action sequences. His gratitude towards Cruise not only highlights the camaraderie among actors but also reinforces the significance of mentorship in navigating the challenges of the film industry.
