the legend film tom cruise

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Trouble logging in?

By continuing, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes.

Email not verified

Let's keep in touch.

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

Upcoming Movies and TV shows
Trivia & Rotten Tomatoes Podcast
Media News + More

By clicking "Sign Me Up," you are agreeing to receive occasional emails and communications from Fandango Media (Fandango, Vudu, and Rotten Tomatoes) and consenting to Fandango's Privacy Policy and Terms and Policies . Please allow 10 business days for your account to reflect your preferences.

OK, got it!

Movies / TV

No results found.

What's the Tomatometer®?
Login/signup

Movies in theaters

Opening this week
Top box office
Coming soon to theaters
Certified fresh movies

Movies at home

Fandango at Home
Netflix streaming
Prime Video
Most popular streaming movies
What to Watch New

Certified fresh picks

Challengers Link to Challengers
Abigail Link to Abigail
Arcadian Link to Arcadian

New TV Tonight

The Jinx: Season 2
Knuckles: Season 1
THEM: The Scare: Season 2
Velma: Season 2
The Big Door Prize: Season 2
Secrets of the Octopus: Season 1
Dead Boy Detectives: Season 1
Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story: Season 1
We're Here: Season 4

Where to Watch

Rent Legend on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

What to Know

Not even Ridley Scott's gorgeously realized set pieces can save Legend from its own tawdry tale -- though it may be serviceable for those simply looking for fantasy eye candy.

Audience Reviews

Cast & crew.

Ridley Scott

Princess Lily

David Bennent

Alice Playten

Movie Clips

Movies in theaters, movie news & guides, this movie is featured in the following articles., critics reviews.

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors.

Now streaming on:

Recent movies have created sort of a generic fantasy universe of Muppets and swamps, strange beasts and evil tyrants, damsels and heroic lads, and ancient prophecies and mythical legends. It's a world inspired by ingredients from "Lord of the Rings," the "Star Wars" movies, Dungeons and Dragons gamesmanship, tales of King Arthur and the latest gimmicks from the special-effects people.

In a movie that works, these ingredients can be exciting and delightful. "Legend" does not work.

The movie is a British big-budget, special-effects extravaganza by Ridley Scott , the director of " Alien ." It tells of a time long, long ago, when unicorns roam the Earth and the powers of light and darkness are at war. An evil prince named Darkness lives in caverns far beneath the Earth, scheming to blot the sun out of the lives of all the planet's creatures and to rule the gloom forever.

Earth itself is a sylvan place, filled with flowers and little glades and grassy clearings - but also with dread swamps and moldy fens. Young lovers can kiss for an afternoon in a bath of sunshine, but fearsome storms come up suddenly and lash the land with their fury. A race of evil little druids lives in the woods, and they spread mischief wherever they venture. Their favorite pastime is frightening the unicorns.

Into this setting come our heroes, Jack and Lili. Jack ( Tom Cruise ) is a hero whose mission in life is to vanquish Darkness and allow the sun to prevail. Lili ( Mia Sara ) is the young woman he meets and falls in love with, but she is lured into the underworld and seduced by an exotic priestess into seemingly becoming evil. Will Jack save Lili and defeat Darkness? Or will the movie end unhappily? Can we vote more than once? Let it be said that "Legend" is an impressive technical achievement. Scott is a perfectionist who takes infinite pains to make things look right.

The problem is, the world of "Legend" is itself wrong for this material. To some degree, this is a fairy tale, and it needs a certain lightness of tone, a plucky cheerfulness, to work. Like many recent sword and sorcery movies, it is so effective in rendering evil, so good at depicting the dire, bleak fates facing the heroes, that it's too dreary and gloomy for its own good.

Performances tend to get lost in productions like this. I particularly noticed how easily Cruise got buried in the role of Jack.

Here is the talented young actor from " Risky Business ," where he came across as a genuine individual, and this time he's so overwhelmed by sets and special effects that his character could be played by anybody.

Tim Curry , from " The Rocky Horror Picture Show ," makes an effective Darkness; I liked his style. But, once again, the makeup people have done such a good job with his blazing eyes and gigantic horns that, in a way, almost any actor could be lurking inside there (only Curry's sensuous lips give him away).

Despite all its sound and fury, "Legend" is a movie I didn't care very much about. All of the special effects in the world, and all of the great makeup, and all of the great Muppet creatures can't save a movie that has no clear idea of its own mission and no joy in its own accomplishment.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

Now playing

In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon

Clint worthington.

Chicken for Linda!

Robert daniels.

The First Omen

Tomris laffly.

Marya E. Gates

Brian Tallerico

Asphalt City

Glenn kenny, film credits.

Legend (1986)

Tom Cruise as Jack

Mia Sara as Lili

Tim Curry as Darkness

David Bennent as Gump

Alice Playten as Blix

Billy Barty as Screwball

Directed by

Ridley Scott

Produced by

Arnon Milchan

Screenplay by

William Hjortsberg

Photographed by

Alex Thomson
Tangerine Dream
Terry Rawlings

Latest blog posts

Ebertfest Film Festival Over the Years

The 2024 Chicago Palestine Film Festival Highlights

Man on the Moon Is Still the Cure for the Biopic Blues

Part of the Solution: Matthew Modine on Acting, Empathy, and Hard Miles

On the Screen Reviews

The New Orleans Film Critic

Ridley Scott’s “Legend” (1985) is Iconic

With Tom Cruise, unicorns and Ridley Scott behind the lens, what could possibly go wrong? Apparently, it depends on who you talk to.

If Disney and the Grimm Brothers had a bastard baby, it would be Legend , and I couldn’t be more obsessed with it.

Legend is widely rumored to have been a source of inspiration for Shigeru Miyamoto’s classic game series The Legend of Zelda. Some people may know it as the fantastical film that starred a young Tom Cruise, while others have absolutely no recollection of it at all. I’m part of the former, and I can proudly say that I believe in it’s strong cult status in the cinematic universe.

Many will argue, myself included, that Legend was ahead of its time, but it was a movie opening onto an audience not ready for it. It wouldn’t be until Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Ring’s trilogy that wizards and goblins would win over Hollywood and the masses.

Legend came after after Ridley Scott’s critically acclaimed horror Alien (1979) and sci-fi noir classic Blade Runner (1982). Part of me always felt like Ridley sat down and just decided that he felt like making a fantasy film, and I’m kind of right.

Where does one begin to dissect how a perfectly campy 80s fantasy movie would be a complete abomination at the box office and completely forgotten by the public? Maybe I could start with the chaos that engulfed production, or the simple fact that Ridley Scott decided to release Legend three weeks before the Tom Cruise mega-hit Top Gun bouncing Legend out of every theater in America?

Legend wasn’t the first of it’s kind; the 80s was a haven for the fantasy genre, but few of the sword and sorcery flicks were ever hits…most barely making a profit. What did profit off of these movies, like Dark Crystal , Clash of the Titans and Willow was nostalgia. Whether or not you consider the lot a bad batch is your opinion, but there’s no denying their cult status in cinema.

The story-line is simple, albeit shallow to most, in that a young man must stop the Lord of Darkness from both destroying daylight and marrying the woman he loves.

From the outrageously spectacular set (that actually burned down toward the end of production stalling everything), to the lavish makeup (let’s be honest, CGI would solely be used now), there are many things I truly love about this movie. Every character is framed and designed so artistically (Meg Mucklebones, anyone?) that it’s impossible to pick a favorite…although Tim Curry’s Lord of Darkness is the immediate takeaway for most moviegoers.

Tim Curry as Old Testament terrifying Lord of Darkness is probably the MVP of this movie. Under layers of prosthetics (that took 5.5 hours to put on) from Oscar-winning make-up artist Rob Bottin (known for his work in The Thing ), you would never see this kind of artistry recreated in film today. CGI CGI CGI until you die would be the appropriate response for such complex costume design of this scale. I think we can all agree that they just don’t make them like the used to in a world now dominated by CGI.

When it comes to the ultimate argument, it’s whether or not you’ve seen the theatrical release or the director’s cut. The theatrical release bombed. Hard. Various cuts, endings and soundtracks exist for this film, but nothing seemed to attract audiences. The European cut, in theaters in December 1985, was 95 minutes and featured a Jerry Goldsmith orchestral score. The American release was several months later, in April 1986, trimmed to 89 minutes, and replaced the Goldsmith music with a more contemporary, up-beat synth sound with German electronic group Tangerine Dream. In my unpopular opinion, I’m a huge fan of the theatrical release, because I absolutely love the cheesy Tangerine Dream score and the extreme tight editing that the director’s cut lacked. Regardless, it’s been spoken that Legend was dead upon arrival once it hit theaters.

The final theatrical result may have been a stereotypical 80s fantasy, but this movie will forever remain a gem in my heart.

Published by Courtney Young

View all posts by Courtney Young

16 thoughts on “Ridley Scott’s “Legend” (1985) is Iconic”

Well…I haven’t forgotten about this film at all😊 I think it’s a highly underrated classic. And it’s great to see you put it in the spotligh here. Great post! 😊😊

Thank you! While I was researching it, I found so much hate for it…hence my “in defense for” in the title.

I’ve never actually seen this. Hmmmmmmmmm lol

It’s VERY campy and VERY 80s. If you can accept that going into it, you may just like it!

Ooh. This looks great. 80s movies are very special to me and I always enjoy the „nostalgic“ mood I get from watching them. Will look out for this one.

Check it out! I think it’s worth it for good 80s cheese 🙂

Definitely will do so.

Great blog post. I listen to a podcast called the retro cinema check em out here they podcast 80’s movies each Thursday & they did a podcast about Legend http://theretrocinema.com/070-legend/ and your blog post was wonderfully written and spot on about the film. Great work Courtney

Thanks, Nick! I actually listened to the retro cinema’s podcast episode on Legend after I wrote this! Great stuff there!

Oh how funny is that! They do such a great job the retro cinema people.

I was a kid when it came to TV and so have a soft spot for it though it was pretty dark for kids. Been meaning to research it for a while to see how it holds but there’s no denying it’s a great looking movie.

I saw it when I was a kid too…quite terrifying!

Great post! I actually haven’t seen this since the 80’s to be honest, but absolutely have fond memories of it, especially (and unsurprisingly) Tim Curry’s stand out performance. Thanks for rekindling my nostalgia, looks like I shall be heading to my local HMV this afternoon to see if they have this particular 80’s gem on Blu-Ray. 🙂

Thank you!!!

Watched it as a kid. Maybe 50 times. Definitely an all time classic. (And side note : That scene between Lily and the Lord of Darkness probably built a huge deal of my erotic imagination !)

[…] Movie review on On the screen review […]

Production [ ]

The film was written by William Hjortsberg and produced by Arnon Milchan, but the behind-the-scenes story of the making of the film is in itself a legend. The film was shot at Pinewood Studios using the 007 Stage, named after, and used for many James Bond films. Part-way through the filming the stage burned completely to the ground forcing the producers to finish the film on hastily completed sets. The film then failed in test screenings: test audiences complained about Jerry Goldsmith's score and of how teenage audiences might accept the film.

The film was first released in Europe, cut down to 94 minutes. Both Universal and Scott decided to cut the film drastically for American release, from nearly two hours in length to 89 minutes. They also replaced Goldsmith's score with music by Tangerine Dream, Yes leader Jon Anderson, and Bryan Ferry. Scott allowed Goldsmith's score, which he thought was "good", to remain on European prints.

Also, an alternate ending (as eventually used in the 1986 U.S. version) was made in which Gump puts the horn back on the dead unicorn and it came back to life and finally, Jack and Lily run off into the sunset together, with Gump, the Unicorns, and the others waving at them. The final scene shows the Dark Lord laughing in his new domain and he will come again when darkness covers the world.

Soundtrack [ ]

Songs in the film [ ].

The following songs were seen in the European and Director's Cuts, with lyrics composed by John Bettis (composer of many Carpenters songs) and music by Jerry Goldsmith:

"My True Love's Eyes" (the main theme, sung mostly by Lily. Mia Sara provided some of the singing, while session singers provided vocals wherever Sara was unable to perform).
"Living River" (the first reprise of "My True Love's Eyes", sung as Lily calls to the unicorn).
"Bumps And Hollows" (sung by Lily after her forbidden act of touching a unicorn).
"Sing The Wee" (the theme for the fairies. The first sung version was cut from all editions of the film as it accompanied a scene with Jack and the fairies that was itself cut; the final sung version by the National Philharmonic Chorus is heard over the end credits).
"Reunited" (the final reprise of "My True Love's Eyes", sung by Lily as she says goodbye to Jack).

The following songs appeared in the 89-minute U.S. recut when it was rescored by Tangerine Dream:

"Loved By The Sun" (music by Tangerine Dream, lyrics written and sung by Jon Anderson, leader of the group Yes).
"Is Your Love Strong Enough" (written and performed by Bryan Ferry over the U.S. print's end credits).

Film Score [ ]

Due to the changes in the film from its European and American releases, Legend has two different soundtracks. The first, produced and composed by Jerry Goldsmith, was used for its initial European release and restored in the director's cut edition of the Region 1 DVD release. The second soundtrack features music by German electronic artists Tangerine Dream and was used for the initial theatrical and home video releases in the United States. This soundtrack also includes songs by Jon Anderson of Yes and Bryan Ferry of Roxy Music. Both soundtracks are available on CD, though the Tangerine Dream soundtrack has become harder to find.

A promotional music video (presumably for the U.S. market, where the Tangerine Dream soundtrack was used) was created for the Bryan Ferry song "Is Your Love Strong Enough". The video, which incorporates Ferry and guitarist David Gilmour into footage from the film, is included as a bonus on disc 2 of the 2002 "Ultimate Edition" DVD release.

Release [ ]

When Universal released the home version, the running time was extended at 94 minutes. Though the score of the film was not Jerry Goldsmith and still retained Tangerine Dream's musical score.

In 2002, Universal released a 113-minute "director's cut" on DVD restoring previously cut scenes, and the original Goldsmith Score. In creating the director's cut edition, producer Charles de Lauzirika turned to Legend fan and unofficial historian Sean Murphy, who runs the Legend FAQ and Terry Rawlings, the editor of Legend, for help in finding the footage for the Ultimate DVD creation.

Definitive Cut [ ]

Ridley Scott admits that comments made by some pot-smoking attendees at a screening got the director second-guessing himself, and influenced him to cut the film from 150 minutes to 98. Suggesting that there is atleast a 150 minute version of the film itself though such cut has never been released to the public.

External Links [ ]

Legend at Internet Movie Database
1 Kingdom of Heaven
2 Kingdom of Heaven Director's Cut

Rent or buy
Categories Categories
Getting Started

Customers also watched

Cast and Crew

Other formats

15585 global ratings

How are ratings calculated? Toggle Expand Toggle Expand

Amazon Newsletter
About Amazon
Accessibility
Sustainability
Press Center
Investor Relations
Amazon Devices
Amazon Science
Sell on Amazon
Sell apps on Amazon
Supply to Amazon
Protect & Build Your Brand
Become an Affiliate
Become a Delivery Driver
Start a Package Delivery Business
Advertise Your Products
Self-Publish with Us
Become an Amazon Hub Partner
› See More Ways to Make Money
Amazon Visa
Amazon Store Card
Amazon Secured Card
Amazon Business Card
Shop with Points
Credit Card Marketplace
Reload Your Balance
Amazon Currency Converter
Your Account
Your Orders
Shipping Rates & Policies
Amazon Prime
Returns & Replacements
Manage Your Content and Devices
Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
Conditions of Use
Privacy Notice
Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
Your Ads Privacy Choices

Tom Cruise and Tim Curry Starred in This Unforgettable Fantasy Cult Classic

The epic dark fantasy, Legend, was released in 1985 and starred Tom Cruise as a whimsical boy and Tim Curry as the Lord of Darkness.

Legend (1985) is an overlooked yet epic dark-fantasy film that stars two unlikely legends: Tom Cruise and Tim Curry . Ridley Scott directs the film, and many of the scenes contain clear inspiration from his other popular franchise, Alien . Legend also didn't receive commercial success during its initial release, but it is a cult classic, especially after the unrated director's cut was released.

The premise features a young woman, Princess Lili (Sara), who has romantic feelings for a young forest man, Jack in the Green (Cruise). The two meet in secret; however, unbeknownst to the lovers, the Lord of Darkness (Curry) sends unicorns into the forest to cast the world into eternal night, killing anyone in the way. In the midst of this, Lili and Jack are separated, and she's taken to Darkness's dungeon, where he attempts to seduce her. Therefore, Jack bands together with unlikely friends to rescue Lili and save the world, thus delivering two stand-out characters from iconic actors in a film that deserves a re-watch.

RELATED: Brendan Fraser Knows Why Tom Cruise's The Mummy Reboot Flopped

Did Tom Cruise's Character in Legend Inspire Zelda's Link?

Before Cruise became known as the summer action star people know him as today, he starred in this unique tale filled with faeries and unicorns. The character Jack is a symbol of purity, and Lili tempts him to want more than friendship. Dressed in a whimsical tunic and face glitter, Jack defies logic by defeating Darkness to win her back. By the Legend's end, Lili and Jack learn that their purity is worth protecting, as it keeps them safe from harm.

The impact of Cruise's innocent character may be grander than most think because there is a theory in the fantasy and gaming world that suggests Legend's Jack inspired The Legend of Zelda creator, Shigeru Miyamoto, to create The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Some claim Miyamoto mentioned this in an interview , but resurfacing the details has proven difficult. Regardless, the similarities are present, as Jack wields a bow and arrow while he travels through the dungeon to save Lili. This feels akin to Link and his video game adventures.

RELATED: Christian Bale's American Psycho Inspiration Wasn't a Slasher - It Was Tom Cruise

Tim Curry Radiates Power and Intensity as Legend's Darkness

Curry gives a fantastic performance as Lord of Darkness, and the actor even sat in makeup for eight hours to create the unforgettable look. According to Monsters of Makeup , Scott wanted Curry's character to be "very sexy," so they designed a red, devil-like appearance for the creature. Unfortunately, Curry accepted the role before the makeup design was complete, and he tried to fight against the cat-like contacts, but lost. The costume also included sharper teeth, large horns, hooves and claws.

Despite the difficulties with makeup, Curry gives an excellent performance. Darkness enters Legend with an intimidating presence, towering over Lili as he offers her eternal life with him. Curry is well-known for other tantalizing characters, including his performance as Dr. Frank N Furter in Rocky Horror Picture Show , and that carries over here as Darkness' voice radiates evil, providing an unforgettable experience for the viewer, much like Curry's performance as Pennywise in the original television film IT .

RELATED: The Best Movie Musicals for the Spooky Season

Why Legend Should Be Revisited as a Cult Classic

As mentioned above, Legend carries heavy themes about purity and carnal desires. Lili is a tool Darkness attempts to use to spread evil throughout the world. Although she bravely fights against his temptation, Jack offers assistance to help her escape the strains of the evil dungeon. In the theatrical release, Lili and Jack even end up together, but in the director's cut, they go separate ways to maintain their innocence. Either way, they learn the value of remaining pure and not giving in to instinctual impulses.

Many people might have forgotten this fantasy film, but it remains a cult classic for Scott, Cruise and Curry fans. Cruise brings a more timid performance than what audiences would continue to see from him in the future. Meanwhile, Curry carries the expertise he's learned throughout his career by taking on unique, memorable roles. Their pairing works well to tell the whimsical tale and embrace the powerful themes.

We will keep fighting for all libraries - stand with us!

Internet Archive Audio

This Just In
Grateful Dead
Old Time Radio
78 RPMs and Cylinder Recordings
Audio Books & Poetry
Computers, Technology and Science
Music, Arts & Culture
News & Public Affairs
Spirituality & Religion
Radio News Archive

Flickr Commons
Occupy Wall Street Flickr
NASA Images
Solar System Collection
Ames Research Center

All Software
Old School Emulation
MS-DOS Games
Historical Software
Classic PC Games
Software Library
Kodi Archive and Support File
Vintage Software
CD-ROM Software
CD-ROM Software Library
Software Sites
Tucows Software Library
Shareware CD-ROMs
Software Capsules Compilation
CD-ROM Images
ZX Spectrum
DOOM Level CD

Smithsonian Libraries
FEDLINK (US)
Lincoln Collection
American Libraries
Canadian Libraries
Universal Library
Project Gutenberg
Children's Library
Biodiversity Heritage Library
Books by Language
Additional Collections

Prelinger Archives
Democracy Now!
Occupy Wall Street
TV NSA Clip Library
Animation & Cartoons
Arts & Music
Computers & Technology
Cultural & Academic Films
Ephemeral Films
Sports Videos
Videogame Videos
Youth Media

Search the history of over 866 billion web pages on the Internet.

Mobile Apps

Wayback Machine (iOS)
Wayback Machine (Android)

Browser Extensions

Archive-it subscription.

Explore the Collections
Build Collections

Save Page Now

Capture a web page as it appears now for use as a trusted citation in the future.

Please enter a valid web address

Donate Donate icon An illustration of a heart shape

LEGEND (1985) Theatrical Version

Video item preview, share or embed this item, flag this item for.

Graphic Violence
Explicit Sexual Content
Hate Speech
Misinformation/Disinformation
Marketing/Phishing/Advertising
Misleading/Inaccurate/Missing Metadata

plus-circle Add Review comment Reviews

36,705 Views

291 Favorites

DOWNLOAD OPTIONS

In collections.

Uploaded by itfiguresofcourse on September 5, 2021

Or browse by category:

Get the app
Movie Reviews
Best Movie Lists
Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

Best TV Lists
Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
Common Sense Selections for TV
Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

Book Reviews
Best Book Lists
Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

Game Reviews
Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

Podcast Reviews
Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

App Reviews
Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

YouTube Channel Reviews
YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

Explaining the News to Our Kids

Family Tech Planners
Digital Skills
All Articles
Latino Culture
Black Voices
Asian Stories
Native Narratives
LGBTQ+ Pride
Best of Diverse Representation List

Celebrating Black History Month

Movies and TV Shows with Arab Leads

Celebrate Hip-Hop's 50th Anniversary

Legend (1986), common sense media reviewers.

Dark and often scary '80s fantasy hasn't aged well.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Good people must take up weapons and become simila

Peaceful Jack faces his fears and takes up arms to

A monster loses his head, but there's no blood. A

Passionate kissing. The Lord of Darkness talks of

"Hell," "dammit," and "s--t."

Wine drinking.

Positive Messages

Good people must take up weapons and become similar to the evil beings they hope to vanquish.

Positive Role Models

Peaceful Jack faces his fears and takes up arms to save the last unicorn and his love interest.

Violence & Scariness

A monster loses his head, but there's no blood. A sprite is hit with an arrow to the brain but survives. A shadowy goblin hacks at a supine victim's stomach repeatedly. A huge repellant-looking goblin threatens to eat Jack. Brain-eating is mentioned, and one villain wants to drink a unicorn's blood. The pig goblin puts victims in a large cooking pot but doesn't eat them. One character prepares to cut a unicorn's head off but doesn't.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Passionate kissing. The Lord of Darkness talks of his desire for Princess Lily. Young actors playing sprites are scantily clad.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Legend is a dark fantasy full of menacing and sometimes violent imagery that may terrify younger children. Actors in scary makeup and costumes play goblins representing a devil-like Lord of Darkness, who seeks to eradicate good and bring back a permanent winter of evil throughout the world. A unicorn -- the symbol of goodness -- is violently killed. Humans and sprites are attacked; one is hit in the head with an arrow. Some are carted off to be eaten. Brain-eating is mentioned, and one villain wants to drink a unicorn's blood. Expect some wine drinking. The words "s--t," "dammit," and "hell" are used. The Lord of Darkness talks of his desire for Princess Lily. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Community Reviews

Parents say (6)
Kids say (2)

Based on 6 parent reviews

Incredible costumes!

What's the story.

LEGEND is the horror-movie mirror image of A Midsummer Night's Dream , with startling imagery used to frighten rather than delight. The makeup and costume people created horrifying people-eating goblins worthy of a Grimm tale. And Olympic and Judeo-Christian themes echo here, as representatives of good and evil wrestle for the fate of the world. The definitions of "good" and "evil" are cartoonish at best in a plot that revolves around the weary story of a powerful Lord of Darkness fallen out of favor and seeking vengeance on everything good. His victory depends on his minions bringing him the horn of a unicorn, the symbol of goodness and purity. The unicorn is lured with its favorite bait -- innocence -- and Tom Cruise plays the innocent woods dweller Jack, wearing a ragged and soiled Peter Pan costume.

Is It Any Good?

This dreadful dark fantasy has become a "cult classic," but one can't help but wonder why. The 1986 director's cut is rated NR and is 54 minutes longer than the earlier PG release. The real trouble is that costumes, makeup, and art direction far surpass plot in quality and comprehensibility. The Tolkien and Harry Potter fantasies, which also feature frightening confrontations between good and evil, at least exemplify good storytelling, the key component missing from this venture. The dialogue often verges laughably on dumb: "Me and you, and all is barbecue," a sprite says, assessing the probability of being eaten by goblins. And, "What a fine fat boy you are," says a goblin to Jack, who replies, "You don't really mean to eat me, do you?" Cruise signals his unicorn-attracting innocence by playing the role with his mouth permanently ajar in awe, but, really, what more could he do with such a role? You can't miss his gaping because director Ridley Scott dwells continually on Cruise's parted lips in disturbing and fetishistic close-ups of the beautiful young actor's face.

Be aware that kids who find The Wizard of Oz the least bit nerve-wracking may run screaming from the room when one wriggling captured sprite is hauled off by a hulking goblin to be baked into a pie. This is one nightmare-inducing movie for sensitive kids.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about why darkness is associated with evil and light is associated with good. Where do you think that idea started?

Where can you learn more about the legends of unicorns and goblins?

What is your favorite legend? Why is it your favorite?

Movie Details

In theaters : April 12, 1986
On DVD or streaming : May 31, 2011
Cast : Tom Cruise , Mia Sara , Tim Curry
Director : Ridley Scott
Inclusion Information : Female actors
Studio : Embassy International Pictures
Genre : Fantasy
Run time : 143 minutes
MPAA rating : PG
Last updated : August 20, 2023

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

Our editors recommend.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Want personalized picks for your kids' age and interests?

The Princess Bride

The Wizard of Oz

Best fantasy movies, fantasy books for kids.

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

Screen Rant

20 crazy details behind the making of legend.

Legend is the 1985 dark, twisted fantasy from the director of Blade Runner, Gladiator, and Alien. It's not your run-of-the-mill fairy tale.

Ridley Scott may have been known for his cult hits back in the '80s, but Legend is one film that never reached the heights of Blade Runner or Alien . Despite having its own share of "Director's Cuts" and "Ultimate Editions" like Scott's previous work, the film's fan group was even smaller in number. Much of this came from the movie's undeniable problems and the struggles - from its first draft to its fifteenth.

An ambitious new story taken from Celtic mythology, Legend involved a familiar fairy tale story with a young hero, played by Tom Cruise, going to save a princess from the Lord of Darkness, played by the legendary Tim Curry. While the production design and creativity were awe-inspiring, the characters and story felt underdeveloped. The intent may have been there, but it seemed to lack the depth necessary for it to last long after its time.

With that said, it's a small miracle the film actually got made. Plagued by innumerable production problems and creative changes, the final product couldn't help but illustrate that. However, it's an undoubtedly interesting project to investigate.

So many production ideas and instances of studio interference took it away from the original vision. Yet, many of these concepts will never be seen by fans. A mix of test screening reactions and executive decision-making took the project in a different direction that many behind the camera weren’t prepared for. Perhaps they could learn a thing or two from our list.

Here are 20 Crazy Details Behind The Making Of Legend.

Bad test screenings chopped the movie up

Test screenings can be the defining moment for big movies. It'll determine whether a studio has a surefire hit on their hands or if there's something to worry about. As revealed on Legend 's DVD special features, in the case of Legend 's initial preview screening, things really didn't go as everyone hoped.

Viewers were divided on the film, to say the least.

This test screening ended up being Legend 's defining moment as the film went through dramatic changes following it. Most prominent among them were the cuts to the runtime, eventually reduced to 89 minutes.

Credited for this decision were a couple of audience members supposedly smelling of illegal substances that expressed their displeasure during the screening. While most may not have minded, Ridley Scott seemed to see their comments as constructive.

There are four different versions of the movie

As previously noted, Legend went through a massive series of edits that resulted in a sharp difference from the project's original form. This led to multiple different versions being created that varied across multiple platforms. In total, there ended up being up to four different versions.

There is the original 94-minute European release, 89-minute theatrical release in America, a 94-minute release on network television, and an eventual Director's Cut that ended up with a 113-minute runtime.

The American version was ultimately the most edited-down. Network TV incorporated an opening title crawl narration and some scenes from the European version.

Besides the Director's Cut (which didn't come out until 2002), the European cut got the most authentic version.

It went through 15 rewrites

Writing a ready-for-filming screenplay is no easy task. Add in a large budget and dueling creative preferences with the studio, and you've got an idea of screenwriter William Hjortsberg's struggle.

Whether it was the lacking amount of source material provided to him or the constant retooling of the film's plot and design, his adaptability was essential.

There were constant reworkings necessary for the script. Decisions made to fix tonal issues, mass marketability, and figuring out how to remove 60 minutes from the runtime without breaking the film were just a few of his tasks.

It was no walk in the park for the writer, but it's clear that he remained hopeful and interested throughout.

Many elements may have been changed, but in his eyes, Legend 's foundation remained.

Dark deleted scene between Lord of the Darkness and the Princess

A film like Legend proved to be somewhat difficult to market, but it could've been much more of a challenge had they stuck with certain creative choices.

When writing the first screenplay draft, there was a scene in which the Lord of Darkness torments the Princess until she loves him. The scene wouldn't have ended there either, as the two would've supposedly had violent relations immediately after.

Although Hjortsberg undoubtedly had reasoning behind this idea, the concept was one of the first things scrapped in the editing bay. He voiced his heavy amount of disappointment, but remained agreeable when some rewrites were requested.

It was originally way darker, and inappropriate for kids

If that entry discussing the initial film's extended torment scene didn't make it clear, Legend was planned as a very dark fairy tale. From its chosen screenwriter to the mythology that served as points of inspiration, this did not start as a standard fantasy.

However, 1985 was not the most forgiving time for ambitious creators who needed big budgets to bring their projects to life. You needed some sort of guarantee for the studio that your movie was marketable, and Scott had to make compromises.

He ended up making the compromises because he knew it'd be impossible to make the film without them (especially with the $30 million budget). This meant that grittier tone got toned down rather significantly.

A fourth goblin, Tic, was deleted from all versions

Some may feel that fantasy worlds can never have too many characters. Unfortunately, if a screenwriter can't find a place to put someone, the character ends up either removed or forgotten. This is the treatment that the character of Tic received.

Initially the fourth goblin, Tic was present in the film's script throughout much of production. Yet, when it came time to prep the film for theaters, Tic found himself cut from the movie.

The script had nothing for him to do, leading to this choice.

However, once the Director's Cut was released, Tic got some time in the spotlight. He can be spotted in the alternate opening footage on the Legend DVD, chumming it up with his fellow goblins.

All of Gump's lines were dubbed

When watching any of Gump's scenes, there's always something off -- just enough of a delay between his lips moving and his dialogue to keep you distracted. Was he dubbed? Yes, yes he was.

As confirmed by screenwriter William Hjortsberg, David Brennent -- who played Jack's sidekick Honeythorn Gump -- had his lines completely dubbed over by Alice Payten-- the actress who played the evil goblin, Blix.

The studio thought that Bennent's accent was too heavy for English-speaking audiences to understand.

Bennent went on to a long career, performing primarily in his native language in Germany.

They didnt want little people to play the goblins

While a staple of fantasy films, it's no easy task casting appropriate actors for roles like goblins and dwarves. It's hard enough finding suitable actors for any big movie, but once you narrow down the search to characters of certain shapes and sizes, difficulties increase.

This problem led VFX legend Richard Edlund to consider filming on 70mm film to get out of the requirement of casting little people for size-appropriate roles.

Shooting that way would allow for easier framing so editors could make cast members simply "look" like they're dwarf-sized. Edlund's previous work with other "miniature" characters ( Star Wars ’ Ewoks) likely served as motivation behind this ditched idea.

Blade Runner's Unicorn connection

A great excerpt from the book Legend Making was Hjortsberg's discussion on how the film was pitched to him by Ridley Scott.

Scott was still busy with Blade Runner , so he still had unicorns on the mind.

Scott told the writer that he wanted to tell a story involving unicorns, "the fastest steed on Earth," in some way.

This led to Hjortsberg describing a story involving a princess in love with a commoner. The princess would sneak out of the castle so the two could meet up and interact with some unicorns, leading to the inciting incident. He described it almost exactly the same as the film version. Scott loved what he was hearing, which then led to Hjortsberg being sent home to write the script.

The writer's only reference for the script was Faeries

When drawing up a somewhat original fantasy story, it's important to have a strong foundation to draw from. And while Ridley Scott definitely had a vision, William Hjortsberg was largely on his own when drafting up a script. Before he was to begin writing, Scott pointed to a picture book called Faeries by Brian Froud and Alan Lee.

This is where Hjortsberg developed the foundation of the script as he got a mentality on the world he was to help develop, along with some minor character ideas.

As Hjortsberg explained to Figment Fly , the paintings and art of the Celtic mythical creatures known as faeries influenced the world of Legend.

Ridley Scott "Disney-fied" the movie

Creative compromises with production studios are a necessary evil of filmmaking. After all, the studio wants to ensure that whatever project they're supporting can make money, and the filmmaker sometimes must make tough choices to ensure success.

Since this was nowhere near a typical fantasy film, the studio had a simple idea: make it more like Disney.

Disney had been a powerhouse for years upon years, so it was difficult not to agree with the choice to draw closer to their framework. As revealed to Cinefantastique , this led to a lighter tone, more simplified story, and story reworkings that made everything feel much more familiar. Creatively, it hurt the film in the long run.

Yet, when you think about Scott's position, was there anything else he could've done?

The electronic youth score

The story of Jerry Goldsmith's time working on Legend is so dense that it requires two entries, starting with what led to his replacement. Goldsmith was the original composer for the film, providing a suitably fantastical and romance-inspired score. For those who listen to it, it's another strong product from the prolific composer.

According to Universal executive Sidney Sheinberg in Jack Mathew’s book The Battle of Brazil , initial reactions from the preview audience were negative, with some singling out Goldsmith's score.

Many changes were made to the overall product because of this, like bringing in electronic band Tangerine Dream to help the movie be more youth-friendly. Goldsmith was then left in the dust, along with his original score.

There are two different soundtracks for the movie

Thankfully, even though Goldsmith did get unceremoniously replaced, that doesn't mean all of his work was for nothing.

Sure, American audiences had Tangerine Dream's synth-heavy underscore for the theatrical cut of Legend , but European audiences got to experience Goldsmith's score with theater speakers.

Yes, the European cut of the movie came with the original score attached, allowing the movie to play out similarly to its original test version. It's not quite the same, but at least something closer to what Ridley Scott originally envisioned. It's up to audiences to determine which score is better suited, but at least Goldsmith's hard work was still able to be appreciated.

Ridley Scott approved of all the major changes from the studio

Moviegoers today are often extremely worried whenever they feel a director's vision has been diluted by executives. Viewers want to ensure that they're getting the definitive edition of whatever film they're watching.

Legend seems like a great example of this, as the film was influenced heavily by its studio.

None of the film’s major additions/removals were implemented without director Ridley Scott's approval.

Each new idea went through Scott and he approved them.

As Scott has made clear in the past, he sees his relationship with production studios as a partnership rather than an obligation. In addition, his confidence in the product was shaken following the poor test screenings, so he was game to change, so long as they could potentially lead to success.

Style over substance

Considering the somewhat "light" source material given to Hjortsberg, it makes sense that there wasn't really much for him to work with. He had to create a lot from very little as he looked at a picture book for potential lore. Without the substance to back up the material's visuals, it stands to reason that you work with what you've got.

This approach spilled into bits of the film, as certain elements feel chosen based on aesthetic rather than depth. Visuals can be as stunning as you'd like, but there's only so much to them when there's nothing below the surface.

Storyboards for the film totaled 411 pages

Any fantasy project surely has an endless amount of concept art and storyboards used throughout the creative process. Thoroughly-designed worlds and inhabitants that help the world itself feel authentic.

Legend may have suffered from shallow source material, but its creative team did not lack ideas.

According to production designer Assheton Gorton, the number of storyboards maxed out at 411.

It's an unsurprising number, given how much of this movie felt dedicated to ensuring there were no moments of "fakeness" on screen, but still notable. It shows that for those who feel the movie lacked depth, it doesn't mean it lacked effort.

One writer did all the rewrites

Inconsistent vision across numerous creatives can be a rather frustrating thing to experience. Whenever it feels like a different person wrote a specific section following the last, it can really hurt a film's immersion.

Even though Legend suffered from many production problems, they always had their trusty screenwriter around.

William Hjortsberg maintained his position as head of writing duties throughout production. This includes every rewrite, addition, and restructuring. It also includes the opening title scroll, which was a creative choice he voiced his displeasure for.

The only time Hjortsberg had his job done for him was when Ridley Scott and then-President of Universal Studios, Sidney Sheinberg, made final preparations for the movie to be theater-ready (according to The Ridley Scott Encyclopedia).

20th Century Fox's one specific fix to Legend's first draft

Regarding the deleted torment scene -- it's difficult to think of it ever being approved in any fantasy project decades before Game of Thrones . If you think execs had strong reactions to it, you're absolutely right.

When pitching the film, Fox executive Marcia Nassiter specifically voiced one fix: "You can't have the villain [get with] the princess."

Discussed in William Hjortsberg's book Legend Making , that component of the film was always a hard sell. Following this response, the film went through years of continuous rewrites with Hjortsberg and Scott working together extensively to get the project right.

The Psycho II Cue

Jerry Goldsmith's time working on Legend was a bundle of misfortune. He gets replaced late in the creative process, almost gets the only copy of his score misplaced/ruined because of studio negligence, and ruins his working relationship with Ridley Scott.

Then there's the fact that American audiences never got to experience his score in theaters. Yet, that statement isn't entirely true. American audiences did get to experience Goldsmith's work in Legend , it just was for a different movie.

Temp music from Psycho II is used in Legend.

For American audiences, it's the only time they get to hear Goldsmith's work during the theatrical cut. It's sad, but at least his work could finally be appreciated once the Director's Cut was released.

Ridley Scott still maintains his pride in the film

You'd think that following all the divisive reactions and the chaotic production process, Ridley Scott would feel some bitterness or negativity towards Legend .

It represented another box office flop for him during a not-so-successful time in his career and likely caused much more than a couple headaches. However, if his commentary on the Director's Cut is anything to go by, he's still proud of it.

Listening to him speak fondly of the film and its specific components confirms the admiration he has for this project. It's likely not his proudest achievement, by a long shot, but it certainly wasn't a project he regretted taking on.

Do you have any trivia to share about Legend ? Let us know in the comments!

30 of Tom Cruise's greatest movie moments

Posted: 10 February 2024 | Last updated: 10 April 2024

<p> Whether he’s scaling a building or producing Oscar-nominated performances, there’s no denying that Tom Cruise is a Hollywood legend. It’s been that way since his early work in Risky Business and Top Gun cemented him as a leading man, before his performance as everyone’s favorite IMF agent in the Mission: Impossible movies confirmed him as the go-to action man. </p> <p> Born in Syracuse, New York, Cruise first started acting at the age of 18, landing bit parts in Endless Love and Taps before making it big time in The Outsiders. Over the years since, he’s broken countless box office records for his leading roles, as well as earning his fair share of acting accolades from his peers. It doesn’t matter what the movie is, if Cruise is making an appearance, it’s sure to be memorable. </p> <p> While he’s often known for his risky stunts that have seen him defying gravity and the laws of physics, there have also been countless powerful performances in his filmography too. As you might imagine with such a lengthy and impressive career, he's also had his fair share of iconic scenes as well. So in celebration of a Hollywood career like no other, here are some of the greatest Tom Cruise movie moments. </p>

The undisputed action legend boasts an incredible decades-spanning career

Whether he’s scaling a building or producing Oscar-nominated performances, there’s no denying that Tom Cruise is a Hollywood legend. It’s been that way since his early work in Risky Business and Top Gun cemented him as a leading man, before his performance as everyone’s favorite IMF agent in the Mission: Impossible movies confirmed him as the go-to action man.

Born in Syracuse, New York, Cruise first started acting at the age of 18, landing bit parts in Endless Love and Taps before making it big time in The Outsiders. Over the years since, he’s broken countless box office records for his leading roles, as well as earning his fair share of acting accolades from his peers. It doesn’t matter what the movie is, if Cruise is making an appearance, it’s sure to be memorable.

While he’s often known for his risky stunts that have seen him defying gravity and the laws of physics, there have also been countless powerful performances in his filmography too. As you might imagine with such a lengthy and impressive career, he's also had his fair share of iconic scenes as well. So in celebration of a Hollywood career like no other, here are some of the greatest Tom Cruise movie moments.

<p> Ridley Scott’s 1985 movie Legend is a hidden gem in Tom Cruise’s filmography. Extremely dark, weird, and atmospheric, the movie is one of the few times Cruise really embraced fantasy filmmaking. He plays 'man of the forest' Jack, whose romance with Princess Lili has a chilling effect when the Lord of Darkness plots to use their relationship to send the world into eternal night. After kidnapping Lili and luring her into his nefarious ways, Tim Curry’s devil-like Darkness is confronted by Jack in this memorable final fight. Showering him with sunlight, Jack sends him off into the void before awakening back in the forest. </p>

Legend: Jack destroys Darkness

Ridley Scott’s 1985 movie Legend is a hidden gem in Tom Cruise’s filmography. Extremely dark, weird, and atmospheric, the movie is one of the few times Cruise really embraced fantasy filmmaking. He plays 'man of the forest' Jack, whose romance with Princess Lili has a chilling effect when the Lord of Darkness plots to use their relationship to send the world into eternal night. After kidnapping Lili and luring her into his nefarious ways, Tim Curry’s devil-like Darkness is confronted by Jack in this memorable final fight. Showering him with sunlight, Jack sends him off into the void before awakening back in the forest.

<p> Any Tom Cruise fan will know, the actor loves to run. Endless compilations of the star running in his movies can be found on YouTube as he heads on a sprint in almost every movie he stars in. From Minority Report to War of the Worlds, there have been a lot of great Cruise runs, but probably the best comes in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol when IMF agent Ethan Hunt runs away from a sandstorm. Capturing the iconic gait of Cruise’s run from a low angle, he sprints through Dubai while barely breaking a sweat. </p>

Running in any movie

Any Tom Cruise fan will know, the actor loves to run. Endless compilations of the star running in his movies can be found on YouTube as he heads on a sprint in almost every movie he stars in. From Minority Report to War of the Worlds, there have been a lot of great Cruise runs, but probably the best comes in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol when IMF agent Ethan Hunt runs away from a sandstorm. Capturing the iconic gait of Cruise’s run from a low angle, he sprints through Dubai while barely breaking a sweat.

<p> The 2008 thriller Valkyrie sees Tom Cruise play real-life historical figure Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, who was one of the men who plotted to assassinate Adolf Hitler in 1944. It is one of the actor’s most heavily researched roles, with Cruise having worked for eight months before filming began to nail the characterization, which included wearing an eyepatch throughout. But it’s a scene towards the end that really stands out as one of the most memorable moments of Cruise’s career. After the plan has been foiled, General Fromm (Tom Wilkinson) sentences all of the plotters to be executed before his involvement can be revealed. Cruise's Colonel fires back a chilling, and simple, warning: "No one will be spared." </p>

Valkyrie: The plan explained

The 2008 thriller Valkyrie sees Tom Cruise play real-life historical figure Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, who was one of the men who plotted to assassinate Adolf Hitler in 1944. It is one of the actor’s most heavily researched roles, with Cruise having worked for eight months before filming began to nail the characterization, which included wearing an eyepatch throughout. But it’s a scene towards the end that really stands out as one of the most memorable moments of Cruise’s career. After the plan has been foiled, General Fromm (Tom Wilkinson) sentences all of the plotters to be executed before his involvement can be revealed. Cruise's Colonel fires back a chilling, and simple, warning: "No one will be spared."

<p> Rock of Ages sees Tom Cruise channel his inner rock star in the ensemble musical. Playing the Axl Rose homage, Stacee Jaxx, his most memorable moment comes when he performs "Pour Some Sugar on Me" on stage to rapturous applause. It’s an impressive feat, and one Cruise rehearsed for hours each day to get right. What’s more, it’s one of his boldest performances, taking him right out of his comfort zone and allowing audiences to see a new shade to the star's talents. Action hero, awards-bait, and rock star – Cruise is no one-trick pony. </p>

Rock of Ages: Stacee’s performance

Rock of Ages sees Tom Cruise channel his inner rock star in the ensemble musical. Playing the Axl Rose homage, Stacee Jaxx, his most memorable moment comes when he performs "Pour Some Sugar on Me" on stage to rapturous applause. It’s an impressive feat, and one Cruise rehearsed for hours each day to get right. What’s more, it’s one of his boldest performances, taking him right out of his comfort zone and allowing audiences to see a new shade to the star's talents. Action hero, awards-bait, and rock star – Cruise is no one-trick pony.

<p> Edge of Tomorrow features a lot of incredible Tom Cruise stunts, but undoubtedly the best come when his character William Cage is donning the exoskeleton suit. Described as one-man tanks, they protect the soldiers in battle and, of course, Cruise didn’t want to resort to CGI for them. Instead, he, Emily Blunt, and the other stars of the film wore very real and very heavy suits for all of their stunts. This makes all of the scenes of Cage and Blunt’s Rita Vrataski running through explosions all the more impressive. Fun fact, the 90-pound suits were actually designed by the same person who made the Batman suits. </p>

Edge of Tomorrow: The exosuits

Edge of Tomorrow features a lot of incredible Tom Cruise stunts, but undoubtedly the best come when his character William Cage is donning the exoskeleton suit. Described as one-man tanks, they protect the soldiers in battle and, of course, Cruise didn’t want to resort to CGI for them. Instead, he, Emily Blunt, and the other stars of the film wore very real and very heavy suits for all of their stunts. This makes all of the scenes of Cage and Blunt’s Rita Vrataski running through explosions all the more impressive. Fun fact, the 90-pound suits were actually designed by the same person who made the Batman suits.

<p> Tom Cruise shows off his romantic comedy chops as a struggling sports agent in Jerry Maguire. He plays a man desperate to do things his own way after being fired for gaining a conscience while working at a cutthroat agency. But at the heart of the drama is a love story with Renée Zellweger’s Dorothy Boyd, who he makes a tearful confession of love to near the end of the movie. "You complete me," he tells her, before she replies the endlessly quotable response: "Just shut up, you had me at hello." It’s undoubtedly one of the most romantic scenes of Cruise’s career. </p>

Jerry Maguire: "You had me at hello"

Tom Cruise shows off his romantic comedy chops as a struggling sports agent in Jerry Maguire. He plays a man desperate to do things his own way after being fired for gaining a conscience while working at a cutthroat agency. But at the heart of the drama is a love story with Renée Zellweger’s Dorothy Boyd, who he makes a tearful confession of love to near the end of the movie. "You complete me," he tells her, before she replies the endlessly quotable response: "Just shut up, you had me at hello." It’s undoubtedly one of the most romantic scenes of Cruise’s career.

<p> Tom Cruise played a memorable part in Paul Thomas Anderson’s kaleidoscopic Magnolia as Frank T.J. Mackey, a crass motivational speaker. He’s in his element as the misogynistic pick-up artist, which we see glimpses of throughout the movie. The best of these is his "tame it" speech to a group of like-minded misanthropists as he tells them to take what they feel they deserve. In a cast filled with stars like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Julianne Moore, Cruise gives it all in a performance that really asks him to <em>go there</em>. </p>

Magnolia: "Tame It" speech

Tom Cruise played a memorable part in Paul Thomas Anderson’s kaleidoscopic Magnolia as Frank T.J. Mackey, a crass motivational speaker. He’s in his element as the misogynistic pick-up artist, which we see glimpses of throughout the movie. The best of these is his "tame it" speech to a group of like-minded misanthropists as he tells them to take what they feel they deserve. In a cast filled with stars like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Julianne Moore, Cruise gives it all in a performance that really asks him to go there .

<p> For someone who’s had a lot of serious roles, Tom Cruise isn’t afraid of a little silliness on screen either. A great example of this is his cameo in Austin Powers in Goldmember, where he plays the British agent in a biopic of himself. His cameo in the movie-within-the-movie may only be brief, but Cruise nails his mannerisms and looks pretty spot-on in the iconic get-up. Skydiving into a moving car is a pretty Cruise-level move too, making this parody even more perfect. "Yeah, baby," indeed. </p>

Austin Powers cameo

For someone who’s had a lot of serious roles, Tom Cruise isn’t afraid of a little silliness on screen either. A great example of this is his cameo in Austin Powers in Goldmember, where he plays the British agent in a biopic of himself. His cameo in the movie-within-the-movie may only be brief, but Cruise nails his mannerisms and looks pretty spot-on in the iconic get-up. Skydiving into a moving car is a pretty Cruise-level move too, making this parody even more perfect. "Yeah, baby," indeed.

<p> Marking the classic book-based action hero’s on-screen debut, Tom Cruise played the brutally effective Jack Reacher in two movies. The second, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, contains the perfect encapsulation of why Cruise was the right man to play the nomad killing machine, despite their physical differences. This comes in the diner scene. "Two things are gonna happen in the next 90 seconds," he warns the sheriff who’s arrested him, "First, that phone over there is going to ring; second, you’re going to be wearing these cuffs on your way to prison." Reacher is a man of few words, but when Cruise delivers these taciturn and furious ones, he looms way beyond his stature to put the naysayers of his casting to rest. </p>

Jack Reacher: "Two things are going to happen"

Marking the classic book-based action hero’s on-screen debut, Tom Cruise played the brutally effective Jack Reacher in two movies. The second, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, contains the perfect encapsulation of why Cruise was the right man to play the nomad killing machine, despite their physical differences. This comes in the diner scene. "Two things are gonna happen in the next 90 seconds," he warns the sheriff who’s arrested him, "First, that phone over there is going to ring; second, you’re going to be wearing these cuffs on your way to prison." Reacher is a man of few words, but when Cruise delivers these taciturn and furious ones, he looms way beyond his stature to put the naysayers of his casting to rest.

<p> While Rain Man contains a lot of incredible moments, it’s the scene when Tom Cruise’s Charlie Babbitt finds out the truth of how his brother left that secures itself as one of the actor’s best on-screen moments. "You’re the rain man," he says to Dustin Hoffman’s Raymond "Ray" Babbitt in the bathroom as he discovers that someone he thought was his imaginary childhood friend was actually his brother all along. Hoffman deservedly received a lot of acclaim for his performance in Rain Man, but watching Cruise work through his emotions as he discovers Ray actually lived with him before being sent away is hugely emotional, and marks one of the most nuanced performances of his career. </p>

Rain Man: The bathroom scene

While Rain Man contains a lot of incredible moments, it’s the scene when Tom Cruise’s Charlie Babbitt finds out the truth of how his brother left that secures itself as one of the actor’s best on-screen moments. "You’re the rain man," he says to Dustin Hoffman’s Raymond "Ray" Babbitt in the bathroom as he discovers that someone he thought was his imaginary childhood friend was actually his brother all along. Hoffman deservedly received a lot of acclaim for his performance in Rain Man, but watching Cruise work through his emotions as he discovers Ray actually lived with him before being sent away is hugely emotional, and marks one of the most nuanced performances of his career.

<p> Tom Cruise has starred in plenty of sci-fi movies, but War of the Worlds contains one of his most chilling on-screen moments. The Steven Spielberg-directed adaptation takes Cruise’s character Ray Ferrier’s perspective as the chaos of an alien invasion begins. Playing with ominous sounds and smoke as Ray tries desperately to find safety as destruction happens around him, the audience is thrown right into the chaos. This all makes the moment when the towering Martian tripods emerge from the surface of the Earth all the more terrifying and sets the stakes for the rest of the film. </p>

War of the Worlds: The aliens arrive

Tom Cruise has starred in plenty of sci-fi movies, but War of the Worlds contains one of his most chilling on-screen moments. The Steven Spielberg-directed adaptation takes Cruise’s character Ray Ferrier’s perspective as the chaos of an alien invasion begins. Playing with ominous sounds and smoke as Ray tries desperately to find safety as destruction happens around him, the audience is thrown right into the chaos. This all makes the moment when the towering Martian tripods emerge from the surface of the Earth all the more terrifying and sets the stakes for the rest of the film.

<p> Tom Cruise’s career has been marked by several motorcycle scenes, but one of the best actually comes in the romantic action comedy Knight and Day. The tongue-in-cheek satire sees Cruise playing a secret agent called Roy Miller, who is on the run from the CIA when he meets Cameron Diaz’s June Havens. After becoming caught up in each other's lives, towards the third act of the film, the pair ride through Seville during a bullfighting ceremony. Navigating bulls storming the streets and bad guys in pursuit, it’s one of the most impressive chase scenes of Cruise’s career. </p>

Knight and Day: Motorcycle chase

Tom Cruise’s career has been marked by several motorcycle scenes, but one of the best actually comes in the romantic action comedy Knight and Day. The tongue-in-cheek satire sees Cruise playing a secret agent called Roy Miller, who is on the run from the CIA when he meets Cameron Diaz’s June Havens. After becoming caught up in each other's lives, towards the third act of the film, the pair ride through Seville during a bullfighting ceremony. Navigating bulls storming the streets and bad guys in pursuit, it’s one of the most impressive chase scenes of Cruise’s career.

<p> Tom Cruise has worked with plenty of incredible directors over his career, and Eyes Wide Shut is no different as he collaborates with Stanley Kubrick. The most memorable moment comes during the ritual scene as Cruise’s Dr. Bill infiltrates a cabal of New York’s elite, all wearing masks. It’s deeply unsettling, takes several chillingly dark turns, and is considered by some to be one of the most disturbing scenes of Cruise’s career. </p>

Eyes Wide Shut: Ritual scene

Tom Cruise has worked with plenty of incredible directors over his career, and Eyes Wide Shut is no different as he collaborates with Stanley Kubrick. The most memorable moment comes during the ritual scene as Cruise’s Dr. Bill infiltrates a cabal of New York’s elite, all wearing masks. It’s deeply unsettling, takes several chillingly dark turns, and is considered by some to be one of the most disturbing scenes of Cruise’s career.

<p> Tom Cruise’s performance as Ron Kovic in Oliver Stone’s Born on the Fourth of July is one for the ages. He plays the real-life anti-war activist over decades of his life through his military service and paralysis in the Vietnam War. It’s a portrayal full of great nuance, but it’s the "I love America" speech that stands out as one of its most powerful moments. At a rally against the war, as Richard Nixon accepts the presidential nomination, Ron is cornered by a reporter asking what he wants to say to these people. "People say if you don’t love America, then get the hell out. Well, I love America," he says as he criticizes the government’s decision to continue the war before he’s dragged away by Nixon’s supporters. The performance landed Cruise a Best Actor nomination at the Academy Awards too. </p>

Born on the Fourth of July: "I love America"

Tom Cruise’s performance as Ron Kovic in Oliver Stone’s Born on the Fourth of July is one for the ages. He plays the real-life anti-war activist over decades of his life through his military service and paralysis in the Vietnam War. It’s a portrayal full of great nuance, but it’s the "I love America" speech that stands out as one of its most powerful moments. At a rally against the war, as Richard Nixon accepts the presidential nomination, Ron is cornered by a reporter asking what he wants to say to these people. "People say if you don’t love America, then get the hell out. Well, I love America," he says as he criticizes the government’s decision to continue the war before he’s dragged away by Nixon’s supporters. The performance landed Cruise a Best Actor nomination at the Academy Awards too.

<p> Tom Cruise's stunts don’t get much bigger than his plane scene in Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation. Playing IMF agent Ethan Hunt, the sequence sees him hanging onto the side of an Airbus A400M as it takes off, before flying to 1,000 feet at high speed. And yes, of course, Cruise actually did the stunt himself with just a wire attached to the side of the plane and special contacts to protect his eyes. Another amazing fact about this moment too is that Cruise didn’t just perform the stunt once, he did it eight times. </p>

Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation: The plane

Tom Cruise's stunts don’t get much bigger than his plane scene in Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation. Playing IMF agent Ethan Hunt, the sequence sees him hanging onto the side of an Airbus A400M as it takes off, before flying to 1,000 feet at high speed. And yes, of course, Cruise actually did the stunt himself with just a wire attached to the side of the plane and special contacts to protect his eyes. Another amazing fact about this moment too is that Cruise didn’t just perform the stunt once, he did it eight times.

<p> It’s always fun to see Tom Cruise not taking himself too seriously, and his role in the satire Tropic Thunder is just that. He plays ill-tempered studio executive Les Grossman who’s financing the war film. Sporting prosthetics that make him almost unrecognizable, his best moment is the profanity-filled call to the Flaming Dragon. It all ends with a mic-drop moment as he chucks the mobile over his shoulder to Matthew McConaughey’s Rick, who has watched the whole exchange in awe. Robert Downey Jr.’s performance in the film may have been nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars, but Cruise’s performance remains one of the most memorable parts of the 2008 comedy. </p>

Tropic Thunder: The call

It’s always fun to see Tom Cruise not taking himself too seriously, and his role in the satire Tropic Thunder is just that. He plays ill-tempered studio executive Les Grossman who’s financing the war film. Sporting prosthetics that make him almost unrecognizable, his best moment is the profanity-filled call to the Flaming Dragon. It all ends with a mic-drop moment as he chucks the mobile over his shoulder to Matthew McConaughey’s Rick, who has watched the whole exchange in awe. Robert Downey Jr.’s performance in the film may have been nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars, but Cruise’s performance remains one of the most memorable parts of the 2008 comedy.

<p> Tom Cruise’s period epic The Last Samurai sees him play military veteran Nathan Algren who befriends samurai Katsumoto (Ken Watanabe) after he decides to spare him. Over the course of the film, the pair develop a bond as Algren is trained in the ways of Japanese swordsmanship. This all leads to the movie’s most poignant moment after Katsumoto has been killed, as Algren presents his sword to Emperor Meiji. "Tell me how he died," the ruler asks, to which Algren emotionally replies, "I will tell you how he lived." The subtext here is pretty clear: do not forget the ways of traditions of the samurai as Japan modernizes. </p>

The Last Samurai: "Tell me how he died"

Tom Cruise’s period epic The Last Samurai sees him play military veteran Nathan Algren who befriends samurai Katsumoto (Ken Watanabe) after he decides to spare him. Over the course of the film, the pair develop a bond as Algren is trained in the ways of Japanese swordsmanship. This all leads to the movie’s most poignant moment after Katsumoto has been killed, as Algren presents his sword to Emperor Meiji. "Tell me how he died," the ruler asks, to which Algren emotionally replies, "I will tell you how he lived." The subtext here is pretty clear: do not forget the ways of traditions of the samurai as Japan modernizes.

<p> A Few Good Men’s 'truth' speech contains one of the most quotable lines in movie history, and while it’s not Tom Cruise himself who utters those iconic words, he’s a central part of what makes the scene so electric. The 1992 Rob Reiner-directed drama follows a trial of two U.S. Marines charged with the murder of a fellow Marine. Cruise’s Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee is the scrappy lawyer defending them as the situation comes to a head when he faces off against Jack Nicholson’s Colonel Nathan R. Jessep in the courtroom, pushing him on his involvement in the crime. </p> <p> "I want the truth," Kaffee bellows, before Jessep erupts, "You can’t handle the truth." Scripted by none other than Aaron Sorkin, it’s considered one of the best scenes in cinematic history, and for good reason too, as it marks one of Cruise’s most powerful performances as he goes toe-to-toe with Nicholson. </p>

A Few Good Men: "Truth" speech

A Few Good Men’s 'truth' speech contains one of the most quotable lines in movie history, and while it’s not Tom Cruise himself who utters those iconic words, he’s a central part of what makes the scene so electric. The 1992 Rob Reiner-directed drama follows a trial of two U.S. Marines charged with the murder of a fellow Marine. Cruise’s Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee is the scrappy lawyer defending them as the situation comes to a head when he faces off against Jack Nicholson’s Colonel Nathan R. Jessep in the courtroom, pushing him on his involvement in the crime.

"I want the truth," Kaffee bellows, before Jessep erupts, "You can’t handle the truth." Scripted by none other than Aaron Sorkin, it’s considered one of the best scenes in cinematic history, and for good reason too, as it marks one of Cruise’s most powerful performances as he goes toe-to-toe with Nicholson.

<p> If you think of Top Gun, probably the first scene you’ll think of is the volleyball scene. Yes, the drama features some epic action set pieces and plenty of romance too, but who are we kidding? Tom Cruise’s Pete "Maverick" Mitchell playing volleyball in the scorching sun to Kenny Loggins’ "Playing With the Boys" is one of the most memorable moments of 1980s cinema, and has been parodied endlessly. In fact, it’s so iconic that Cruise even included an homage in the long-awaited sequel Top Gun: Maverick too. </p>

Top Gun: The volleyball scene

If you think of Top Gun, probably the first scene you’ll think of is the volleyball scene. Yes, the drama features some epic action set pieces and plenty of romance too, but who are we kidding? Tom Cruise’s Pete "Maverick" Mitchell playing volleyball in the scorching sun to Kenny Loggins’ "Playing With the Boys" is one of the most memorable moments of 1980s cinema, and has been parodied endlessly. In fact, it’s so iconic that Cruise even included an homage in the long-awaited sequel Top Gun: Maverick too.

<p> Tom Cruise doesn’t do anything by half, and the Burj Khalifa scene in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol is a great example of that. The stunt, which sees Ethan Hunt scaling the skyscraper in pursuit of Cobalt, saw Cruise really climb the tallest building in the world. All done with just a harness and no stunt double, the actor did it all himself, from running along the outside of the building to jumping between sections while helicopters filmed around him. The crew only broke 35 windows during the shoot too, which is nothing short of miraculous. </p>

Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol: The Burj Khalifa

Tom Cruise doesn’t do anything by half, and the Burj Khalifa scene in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol is a great example of that. The stunt, which sees Ethan Hunt scaling the skyscraper in pursuit of Cobalt, saw Cruise really climb the tallest building in the world. All done with just a harness and no stunt double, the actor did it all himself, from running along the outside of the building to jumping between sections while helicopters filmed around him. The crew only broke 35 windows during the shoot too, which is nothing short of miraculous.

<p> Tom Cruise plays a sports agent with a conscience in the 1996 romantic comedy Jerry Maguire. After being fired for gaining some moral integrity, his character Jerry Maguire starts his own sports agency, which proves to be a little harder than he first thought. Still, he lands one superstar client in Cuba Gooding Jr.’s Rod Tidwell who he’ll do anything to keep, even shouting, "Show me the money" in a crowded office. As Tidwell urges him on, Maguire gets louder and louder until everyone is looking on. It’s one of the most quotable moments from Cruise’s career, and the actor’s whole performance was considered so iconic that he landed an Oscar nomination too. </p>

Jerry Maguire: "Show me the money"

Tom Cruise plays a sports agent with a conscience in the 1996 romantic comedy Jerry Maguire. After being fired for gaining some moral integrity, his character Jerry Maguire starts his own sports agency, which proves to be a little harder than he first thought. Still, he lands one superstar client in Cuba Gooding Jr.’s Rod Tidwell who he’ll do anything to keep, even shouting, "Show me the money" in a crowded office. As Tidwell urges him on, Maguire gets louder and louder until everyone is looking on. It’s one of the most quotable moments from Cruise’s career, and the actor’s whole performance was considered so iconic that he landed an Oscar nomination too.

<p> Tom Cruise has had his fair share of great needle-drop moments throughout his career, as well as never shying away from a performance. But his rendition of "You’ve Lost that Loving Feeling" in Top Gun is up there with the best. Performing off-key with his best friend Goose (Anthony Edwards), Pete "Maverick" Mitchell does his best to win over Kelly McGillis’ Charlie at the bar in this charming scene. Try and stop from beaming when the whole bar erupts into the chorus. </p>

Top Gun: "You’ve lost that loving feeling"

Tom Cruise has had his fair share of great needle-drop moments throughout his career, as well as never shying away from a performance. But his rendition of "You’ve Lost that Loving Feeling" in Top Gun is up there with the best. Performing off-key with his best friend Goose (Anthony Edwards), Pete "Maverick" Mitchell does his best to win over Kelly McGillis’ Charlie at the bar in this charming scene. Try and stop from beaming when the whole bar erupts into the chorus.

<p> "I assume I need no introduction," Tom Cruise’s vampire Lestat drawls in the final scene of Anne Rice adaptation, Interview With The Vampire. Subduing Christian Slater’s reporter before he can release Louis’ story to the world, this is the first time we meet the louche Lestat and he certainly makes his (fang-shaped) mark. The ending is the perfect twist to the chilling drama directed by Neil Jordan, and Cruise nails his character’s menace right up to the credits crawl. It’s the small details that sell it too, from Lestat’s straightening of his shirt sleeves as he takes the wheel to his cackle as the needle drops to The Rolling Stones’ "Sympathy for the Devil." It marks a fitting curtain call to one of Cruise’s most iconic characters. </p>

Interview With The Vampire: Lestat's final scene

"I assume I need no introduction," Tom Cruise’s vampire Lestat drawls in the final scene of Anne Rice adaptation, Interview With The Vampire. Subduing Christian Slater’s reporter before he can release Louis’ story to the world, this is the first time we meet the louche Lestat and he certainly makes his (fang-shaped) mark. The ending is the perfect twist to the chilling drama directed by Neil Jordan, and Cruise nails his character’s menace right up to the credits crawl. It’s the small details that sell it too, from Lestat’s straightening of his shirt sleeves as he takes the wheel to his cackle as the needle drops to The Rolling Stones’ "Sympathy for the Devil." It marks a fitting curtain call to one of Cruise’s most iconic characters.

<p> Never one to be topped in a stunt, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One’s motorcycle stunt is one of the most brutal of Tom Cruise’s career. During the movie’s climactic final sequence, Ethan Hunt has to work out a way to get on a moving train. Naturally, his solution is riding his motorcycle off a cliff before parachuting down onto the top of one of the carriages. It wouldn't be a Cruise stunt if the actor didn’t do it himself either so, of course, the action man rode off a real ramp with a harness attached. Would you expect anything less? </p>

Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1: Motorcycle jump

Never one to be topped in a stunt, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One’s motorcycle stunt is one of the most brutal of Tom Cruise’s career. During the movie’s climactic final sequence, Ethan Hunt has to work out a way to get on a moving train. Naturally, his solution is riding his motorcycle off a cliff before parachuting down onto the top of one of the carriages. It wouldn't be a Cruise stunt if the actor didn’t do it himself either so, of course, the action man rode off a real ramp with a harness attached. Would you expect anything less?

<p> Ever the action man, Tom Cruise made sure his return to the skies in Top Gun: Maverick came with its fair share of epic flight sequences. The most heart-stopping comes in the final sequence as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell leads the team through their near-impossible mission. Full of moments requiring incredible precision, it leaves audiences on the edge of their seats at every turn. Add to this the fact that Cruise was really up in that aircraft, and it’s undoubtedly secured its place as one of the most impressive action sequences in cinematic history. </p>

Top Gun: Maverick: Flight sequence

Ever the action man, Tom Cruise made sure his return to the skies in Top Gun: Maverick came with its fair share of epic flight sequences. The most heart-stopping comes in the final sequence as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell leads the team through their near-impossible mission. Full of moments requiring incredible precision, it leaves audiences on the edge of their seats at every turn. Add to this the fact that Cruise was really up in that aircraft, and it’s undoubtedly secured its place as one of the most impressive action sequences in cinematic history.

<p> For Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, Tom Cruise couldn’t just perform a death-defying underwater scene as Ethan Hunt, he had to break a few records too. If you’ll recall, the IMF agent had to access an underwater secure vault through a vertical tunnel in his team’s battle against the Syndicate. Things don’t quite go to plan though (this is a Mission: Impossible movie after all) and Hunt is trapped in the currents for six minutes, rather than the planned three. However, what’s more amazing than his miraculous escape is that Cruise actually did the dive himself after learning to breathe underwater from a freediver. </p>

Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation: Underwater scene

For Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, Tom Cruise couldn’t just perform a death-defying underwater scene as Ethan Hunt, he had to break a few records too. If you’ll recall, the IMF agent had to access an underwater secure vault through a vertical tunnel in his team’s battle against the Syndicate. Things don’t quite go to plan though (this is a Mission: Impossible movie after all) and Hunt is trapped in the currents for six minutes, rather than the planned three. However, what’s more amazing than his miraculous escape is that Cruise actually did the dive himself after learning to breathe underwater from a freediver.

<p> Despite being one of Tom Cruise’s earliest films, 1983’s Risky Business looms large in the actor’s filmography. And there’s one scene in particular that stands out: Joel Goodsen’s living room dance to "Old Time Rock and Roll." Seeing the overachiever letting loose and enjoying himself, and cracking out some memorable dance moves (the slide, come on), is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Then there’s the outfit. Spawning countless spoofs - and becoming a Halloween staple - the shirt, boxers, and socks combo is iconic. It’s no wonder Risky Business marked Cruise’s breakout Hollywood role. </p>

Risky Business dance

Despite being one of Tom Cruise’s earliest films, 1983’s Risky Business looms large in the actor’s filmography. And there’s one scene in particular that stands out: Joel Goodsen’s living room dance to "Old Time Rock and Roll." Seeing the overachiever letting loose and enjoying himself, and cracking out some memorable dance moves (the slide, come on), is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Then there’s the outfit. Spawning countless spoofs - and becoming a Halloween staple - the shirt, boxers, and socks combo is iconic. It’s no wonder Risky Business marked Cruise’s breakout Hollywood role.

<p> As well as plenty of top-notch action, Tom Cruise's big return to the screen as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell was also hugely emotional. Throughout the movie, he is still grappling with the guilt of losing his best friend all those years ago as he tries to rebuild the relationship with Goose’s son. Struggling, he turns to his old friend Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in a powerful on-screen reunion with Val Kilmer. "It’s time to let go," his former rival tells him in the powerful scene. Good luck keeping a dry eye during this one. </p>

Top Gun: Maverick: Reunited with Iceman

As well as plenty of top-notch action, Tom Cruise's big return to the screen as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell was also hugely emotional. Throughout the movie, he is still grappling with the guilt of losing his best friend all those years ago as he tries to rebuild the relationship with Goose’s son. Struggling, he turns to his old friend Tom "Iceman" Kazansky in a powerful on-screen reunion with Val Kilmer. "It’s time to let go," his former rival tells him in the powerful scene. Good luck keeping a dry eye during this one.

<p> The Mission Impossible – Fallout HALO jump was one that was on Tom Cruise’s bucket list for a while, and he finally pulled it off in the sixth movie. Standing for High Altitude Low Open, the jump is used by military personnel to jump at 25,000 feet before opening their shoot at less than 2,000 feet. This allows them to, as Ethan Hunt does in the film, sneak into another country undetected. Cruise is actually the first actor to perform it on-screen as well, making it another record-breaking movie moment to add to his list. </p>

Mission: Impossible – Fallout: HALO jump scene

The Mission Impossible – Fallout HALO jump was one that was on Tom Cruise’s bucket list for a while, and he finally pulled it off in the sixth movie. Standing for High Altitude Low Open, the jump is used by military personnel to jump at 25,000 feet before opening their shoot at less than 2,000 feet. This allows them to, as Ethan Hunt does in the film, sneak into another country undetected. Cruise is actually the first actor to perform it on-screen as well, making it another record-breaking movie moment to add to his list.

<p> It’s an iconic image that any action fan will know well: Tom Cruise hanging from wires to complete the Langley heist in Mission: Impossible. The nearly 20-minute-long scene sees Cruise’s IMF agent Ethan Hunt infiltrating a secure terminal in the CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia. Navigating a pressure-sensitive floor, a temperature-controlled environment, and an alarm that will go off if a sound louder than a whisper echoes, the tension ratchets as Hunt tries to break into the computer. While it’s not as loud and death-defying as most of the stunts in Cruise’s films, it’s no less iconic, and it cemented Mission: Impossible as the actor’s first franchise. </p>

Mission: Impossible: Langley Heist

It’s an iconic image that any action fan will know well: Tom Cruise hanging from wires to complete the Langley heist in Mission: Impossible. The nearly 20-minute-long scene sees Cruise’s IMF agent Ethan Hunt infiltrating a secure terminal in the CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia. Navigating a pressure-sensitive floor, a temperature-controlled environment, and an alarm that will go off if a sound louder than a whisper echoes, the tension ratchets as Hunt tries to break into the computer. While it’s not as loud and death-defying as most of the stunts in Cruise’s films, it’s no less iconic, and it cemented Mission: Impossible as the actor’s first franchise.

More for You

Brenda Blethyn quits ITV’s Vera

Peruvian psychologist dies by euthanasia after fighting for years in courts for 'death with dignity'

Average US annual salary by age revealed – see how you compare

Theia, a Mars-sized planet, is believed to have struck the Earth some 4.5 billion years ago (iStock)

Scientists 'discover' two huge structures from alien planet beneath the Earth's surface

18 Signs You’re In An Unhappy Relationship

Millionaire’s Cheesecake

10 foods to avoid to help prevent IBS– explained by top nutritionists

Peter Kay cancels sold-out Co-op Live Manchester gig with just 24 hours to go

You shouldn't bank on an inheritance windfall: Many people discover they will get nothing, research discovers

James Cleverly, the Home Secretary, leaves a Cabinet meeting in Downing Street earlier this month

Extreme Right-wing terrorist group Terrorgram to be banned in UK

The 12 biggest alcohol myths you thought were true

What is a full English breakfast?

Anger, tears, guilt, and deep disappointment for Vollering: "Stupid, foolish, I'm very angry at myself"

Aspartame: How dangerous is it for your health and what does it do to your body?

Did Boris Johnson really sabotage peace talks between Russia and Ukraine? The reality is more complicated

I'm an Isa millionaire: Here are my top tips for building a chunky tax-free pot

Comparison. Portrait of beautiful woman with problem and clean skin, aging and youth concept, beauty treatment

Age at which you're officially old has changed

Woman with camera looking at ancient Theater Of Herodes Atticus

War heroes and Brexit: Why Greeks will always love the British

Furious Daniel Ricciardo hit with fresh blow as Miami Grand Prix grid penalty issued

Woman with rare syndrome left allergic to ‘everything’ except just four foods

Legend (1985)

Photo Gallery

Refine All Photos By

Still Frame (170)
Poster (14)
Product (10)
Behind The Scenes (3)
Publicity (1)
Mia Sara (75)
Tom Cruise (51)
Tim Curry (28)
David Bennent (18)
Annabelle Lanyon (16)
Cork Hubbert (10)
Billy Barty (7)
Alice Playten (6)
Peter O'Farrell (5)
Robert Picardo (5)
Tina Martin (3)
Grace Jones (1)
Kiran Shah (1)
Ridley Scott (1)
The Movies of Ridley Scott (3)
Sci-Fi and Fantasy Movies of the 1980s (2)
Tom Cruise Through the Years (2)
Fantastical Physical Transformations (2)
Our Favorite Angels and Demons (2)
Visually Stunning Movies to Stream Now (2)
The Gnarliest New Movies of 1985 (1)
Photos We Love From Our Favorite Family Films (1)
Creatures In and Out of Costume (1)
Devils We Love (1)
Super Memorable On-Screen Makeup Transformations (1)

Photo & Video

Trailers and Videos
Full Cast and Crew
Release Dates
Official Sites
Company Credits
Filming & Production
Technical Specs
Plot Summary
Plot Keywords
Parents Guide

Did You Know?

Crazy Credits
Alternate Versions
Connections
Soundtracks
User Reviews
User Ratings
External Reviews
Metacritic Reviews

Tom Cruise, 61, drops it low and ‘does the splits’ at Victoria Beckham’s 50th birthday

Share this with

Tom Cruise, Victoria Beckham and David Beckham at Victoria's 50th birthday

Tom Cruise was said to be particularly ‘exuberant’ on Saturday evening at Victoria Beckham ’s 50th birthday bash, which saw Posh Spice exit the festivities on David Beckham ’s back.

A-listers from London and beyond flocked to Oswald’s private members club in Mayfair for the reported £250,000 celebration , with attendees including the Top Gun star, 61, Eva Longoria, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Tana and Gordon Ramsay, and of course – all of the Spice Girls.

That’s right: Victoria, Mel C, Mel B, Emma Bunton and Geri Horner reunited for a rendition of their hit song Stop, as David posted the moment on social media, sending fans wild.

But perhaps the most surprising story from the night is that Cruise was – firstly – there, and secondly ‘did the splits’, according to the Daily Mail , whose source claims he was ‘particularly enthusiastic’ throughout the evening.

Another guest told The Mirror the Hollywood star ‘seemed the most exuberant of everyone’ and noted that although he’s in his sixties, you would ‘never know it’.

The Mission Impossible actor also rescued a photographer who had a topple outside the venue, proving his impressive agility yet again.

A photo from Victoria Beckham's instagram, showing the whole family in suits and gowns, ready for her 50th birthday party

Of course, the whole Beckham clan were out for the occasion, including David, 48, Brooklyn, 25; Romeo, 21; Cruz, 19; and Harper Seven, 12.

Brooklyn’s wife, Nicola Peltz, 29, didn’t join the celebrations but wrote a loving birthday message to Victoria on Instagram saying she was ‘so sad’ not to be there.

Victoria – who arrived at the private members’ club with the help of two sticks after she broke her foot earlier this year – wore a light blue, sheer, floor-length gown, looking radiant with her hair in loose waves.

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

Tom Cruise leaving Victoria Beckham's 50th birthday party at Oswald's on April 20, 2024 in London

Meanwhile, it was a black tie affair for the Beckham blokes, as they dressed to the nines for a family picture flanking the birthday queen and Harper, who wore a satin white slip dress.

Posh Spice was said to get emotional when her family, including David, gave their speeches.

‘It was all super-sweet and Victoria looked very proud, not to mention a little teary although she did have a few drinks,’ the source told The Mirror.

Victoria re-posted her husband’s video of her and the Spice Girls getting nostalgic to social media, and wrote: ‘Best night ever! Happy Birthday to me!I love you all so much!’

Mel B wore a stunning red gown with a string neck, while Emma opted for a floor-length black velvet number. Mel C also rocked a black gown, with cutouts on the sides, and Geri opted for a white party dress, with ruffled decoration on the chest.

Posh appeared to have the time of her life at her birthday celebration, leaving the venue in the early hours at 3am.

Your Daily Horoscope

Daily horoscope today: April 23, 2024 astrological predictions for your star sign

That’s one way to turn 50!

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : Cher to be inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame despite vowing to boycott ceremony

MORE : Nicolas Jackson can banish Wembley misery by firing Chelsea to victory over Arsenal

MORE : Dominic West and his wife sometimes ‘joke’ about aftermath of Lily James scandal

Get us in your feed

IMAGES

Legend (1985)
Legend (1985)
Cineplex.com
Legend
Legend (1985)
Mia Sara

VIDEO

THE LEDGE
Tom Cruise ( Oblivion ) Movie Double Role Scene 2013
🎥Фильм: «Легенда» (2015)🍿 #фильмы #кино #топ
Tom Cruise's Huge 1.7 MILLION Trailer!
Tom Cruise spaziert durch den „Englischen Garten"
Legend (1985) We Reviewed the Classic

COMMENTS

Legend (1985)
Legend: Directed by Ridley Scott. With Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, Tim Curry, David Bennent. A young man must stop the Lord of Darkness from destroying daylight and marrying the woman he loves.
Legend (1985 film)
Legend is a 1985 American epic dark fantasy adventure film directed by Ridley Scott, and starring Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, Tim Curry, David Bennent, Alice Playten, Billy Barty, Cork Hubbert and Annabelle Lanyon. The film revolves around Jack, a pure being [N 1] who must stop the Lord of Darkness who plots to cover the world with eternal night.
Legend (1985)
A magical adventure which features elves, demons, and other mythical creatures. The Lord of Darkness (Tim Curry), the personification of evil, plans to disperse eternal night in the land where this story takes place, by killing every unicorn in the world. Although he looks unbeatable, Jack (Tom Cruise) and his friends are disposed to do ...
Legend 1985 Trailer HD
Legend 1985 A young man must stop the Lord of Darkness from both destroying daylight and marrying the woman he loves.Director: Ridley ScottWriter: William Hj...
Legend 1985 Movie Trailer
Legend 1985 trailer. Legend is a 1985 American epic dark fantasy adventure film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, Tim Curry, David ...
Legend
Rated: 3/4 • Sep 12, 2023. Jul 22, 2022. Darkness (Tim Curry) seeks to create eternal night by destroying the last of the unicorns. Jack (Tom Cruise) and his friends do everything possible to ...
Legend movie review & film summary (1986)
Let it be said that "Legend" is an impressive technical achievement. Scott is a perfectionist who takes infinite pains to make things look right. The problem is, the world of "Legend" is itself wrong for this material. To some degree, this is a fairy tale, and it needs a certain lightness of tone, a plucky cheerfulness, to work.
1985's Legend Is a Cult Classic Movie for Tom Cruise Fans
The 1985 fantasy-adventure film Legend had everything going for it. Ridley Scott had made his mark with The Duellists, then turned to science fiction with the Academy Award-winning Alien and the multiple versions of Blade Runner, before aiming at fantasy filmmaking.Tom Cruise had just finished football drama All the Right Moves and was a year away from mega-star status thanks to Top Gun.
Legend Official Trailer #1
Subscribe to TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/sxaw6hSubscribe to COMING SOON: http://bit.ly/H2vZUnSubscribe to CLASSIC TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/1u43jDeLike us on FACEB...
Ridley Scott's "Legend" (1985) is Iconic
Legend is widely rumored to have been a source of inspiration for Shigeru Miyamoto's classic game series The Legend of Zelda. Some people may know it as the fantastical film that starred a young Tom Cruise, while others have absolutely no recollection of it at all.
Legend
Legend is a 1985 fantasy film released by 20th Century Fox in Europe and Universal Pictures in the United States and Canada, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Tom Cruise and Mia Sara. Though not a very notable success when first released, it received an Academy Award nomination (for best makeup) and has since gained a cult following. This is the only fantasy film directed by Ridley Scott ...
Legend: How The Tom Cruise And Tim Curry Fantasy Movie Became A Cult
Like many other movies that become cult classics, Legend was a flop — Tom Cruise's only real box office bomb.The film had a $25 million dollar budget and only made a worldwide total of about $23.5 million despite having been the number one movie at the box office for two weeks when it was released in 1985 (via The Numbers).The fact that Legend performed so poorly at the box office could be a ...
Watch Legend
Legend. When the Lord of Darkness (Tim Curry) seeks to plunge the world into eternal night, he sets out to kill unicorns, guardians of the light. A young man (Tom Cruise) and his band of friends set out to protect the magical creatures and thwart Darkness' plan. 15,564 IMDb 6.3 1 h 29 min 2020. X-Ray PG.
Legend: Why the Tom Cruise and Tim Curry Film Is Still Worth the ...
Legend (1985) is an overlooked yet epic dark-fantasy film that stars two unlikely legends: Tom Cruise and Tim Curry.Ridley Scott directs the film, and many of the scenes contain clear inspiration from his other popular franchise, Alien. Legend also didn't receive commercial success during its initial release, but it is a cult classic, especially after the unrated director's cut was released.
Legend (1985)
Legend (1985) Full Cast & Crew. See agents for this cast & crew on IMDbPro Directed by . Ridley Scott Writing Credits William Hjortsberg ... (written by) ... Tom Cruise / stunts & doubles Paul Grant ... stunts & doubles Kevin Hudson ... stunts & doubles Wendy Leech ...
LEGEND (1985) Theatrical Version : Ridley Scott
legend, fantasy, movie, tom cruise, mia sara, billy barty, tim curry, ridley scott. Theatrical version with the "Tangerine Dream" soundtrack. Addeddate 2021-09-05 08:45:24 ... The magic of a movie like Legend is something we should all be able to share. Reviewer: Mystical1965 - favorite favorite favorite favorite favorite - March 29, 2023 ...
Tom Cruise :: Legend (1985) Trailer
Trailer of Tom Cruise :: Legend (1985) Trailersubscribe PHOTOLAND for trailers.https://www.youtube.com/user/didyouknow1900http://photolandtv.blogspot.com/
Legend (1986) Movie Review
Read Common Sense Media's Legend (1986) review, age rating, and parents guide. ... LEGEND is the horror-movie mirror image of A Midsummer Night's ... the symbol of goodness and purity. The unicorn is lured with its favorite bait -- innocence -- and Tom Cruise plays the innocent woods dweller Jack, wearing a ragged and soiled Peter Pan costume ...
20 Crazy Details Behind The Making Of Legend
An ambitious new story taken from Celtic mythology, Legend involved a familiar fairy tale story with a young hero, played by Tom Cruise, going to save a princess from the Lord of Darkness, played by the legendary Tim Curry. While the production design and creativity were awe-inspiring, the characters and story felt underdeveloped.
Legendary Facts That You Probably Never Knew About Legend
After breaking through with science fiction classics Alien and Blade Runner, director Ridley Scott decided to try his hand at an old-fashioned fairytale with 1985's Legend.Casting young unknowns Tom Cruise and Mia Sara as the romantic hero and heroine, and Tim Curry as the monstrous Lord of Darkness, the dark fantasy was not a hit on release, but has since attracted a large cult following.
Legend 1985 Original Movie Trailer
Legend original movie trailer. Legend is a 1985 American epic dark fantasy adventure film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, Tim Cur...
30 of Tom Cruise's greatest movie moments
Ridley Scott's 1985 movie Legend is a hidden gem in Tom Cruise's filmography. Extremely dark, weird, and atmospheric, the movie is one of the few times Cruise really embraced fantasy filmmaking.
Legend (1985)
Legend (1985) Photo Gallery. 1-48 of 198 photos ... Tom Cruise Through the Years (2) Fantastical Physical Transformations (2) Our Favorite Angels and Demons (2) Visually Stunning Movies to Stream Now (2) The Gnarliest New Movies of 1985 (1) Photos We Love From Our Favorite Family Films (1)
The Eighties Guy
231 likes, 7 comments - the80s.guyApril 18, 2024 on : "#onthisday Legend released . April 18, #1985 American epic dark fantasy adventure film directed by Ridley Scott, and starring Tom Cruise,...". The Eighties Guy | #onthisday Legend released .
Legend
Legend is a 1985 fantasy movie starring Tom Cruise, Mia Sara, and Tim Curry, in which a young man must stop the Lord of Darkness from both destroying dayligh...
Tom Cruise, 61, 'does the splits' at Victoria Beckham's 50th ...
Tom Cruise was said to be on top form at Victoria Beckham's 50th birthday (Picture: Instagram) ... Eighties Hollywood legend, 68, unrecognisable 44 years after hit movie. Alison Hammond, 49 ...

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Email not verified

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

Movies / TV

Where to Watch

What to Know

Audience Reviews

Movie Clips

Movie Reviews

Roger Ebert

Now playing

In Restless Dreams: The Music of Paul Simon

Chicken for Linda!

The First Omen

Marya E. Gates

Brian Tallerico

Asphalt City

Legend (1986)

Directed by

Produced by

Screenplay by

Photographed by

Latest blog posts

Ebertfest Film Festival Over the Years

The 2024 Chicago Palestine Film Festival Highlights

Man on the Moon Is Still the Cure for the Biopic Blues

Part of the Solution: Matthew Modine on Acting, Empathy, and Hard Miles

Ridley Scott’s “Legend” (1985) is Iconic

Share this:

Published by Courtney Young

16 thoughts on “Ridley Scott’s “Legend” (1985) is Iconic”

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Production [ ]

Soundtrack [ ]

Film Score [ ]

Release [ ]

Definitive Cut [ ]

External Links [ ]

Customers also watched

Cast and Crew

Other formats

Tom Cruise and Tim Curry Starred in This Unforgettable Fantasy Cult Classic

Did Tom Cruise's Character in Legend Inspire Zelda's Link?

Tim Curry Radiates Power and Intensity as Legend's Darkness

Why Legend Should Be Revisited as a Cult Classic

Internet Archive Audio

Mobile Apps

Browser Extensions

Save Page Now

LEGEND (1985) Theatrical Version

plus-circle Add Review comment Reviews

DOWNLOAD OPTIONS

SIMILAR ITEMS (based on metadata)

Or browse by category:

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

Common Sense Selections for Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

YouTube Kids Channels for Gamers

Explaining the News to Our Kids

Celebrating Black History Month

Movies and TV Shows with Arab Leads

Celebrate Hip-Hop's 50th Anniversary

A Lot or a Little?

Positive Messages

Positive Role Models

Violence & Scariness

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Parents Need to Know