Digger differed from what audiences expected of a Tom Cruise-led movie. However, Cruise still faced several demanding challenges during the filming. While discussing a specific scene, the 64-year-old actor revealed that his 10-minute monologue demanded immense dedication and skill.
In a recent conversation with actress Avneet Kaur, Cruise revealed what went into crafting the 10-minute scene. He also explained how director Alejandro G. Iñárritu helped shape the single-take monologue.
Reflecting on performing the 10-minute monologue, Cruise said, “It is a rhythm.” While the Digger actor noted that performing in the heavy “fat suit” was difficult, he approached the scene more like a “dance.”
“As an actor, you know the beats to play, and Alejandro, his staging is perfect. It is a dance. I only did the scene a couple of times, but it’s all one take. I just showed up. He’s like, ‘Showed all this stuff,’ and then I just did it,” Cruise added.
Tom Cruise’s Digger journey goes beyond the film’s biggest moments
While the 10-minute single-take monologue was challenging, other aspects of the performance also presented various difficulties. The Mission: Impossible actor has previously reflected on how the fat suit he wore to play Digger Rockwell affected his performance.
In conversation with Travis and Jason Kelce on the New Heights podcast, Cruise revealed, “I’m sweating because I’m wearing these prosthetics. And the scenes, they’re long takes, and the rhythm of it—you really have to know what you’re doing. But I’m sweating underneath, so I came up with all these different things, like cooling machines.”
Since its October 2 debut, Digger has received a mixed response from critics and audiences. Despite its relevant subject matter, the movie has largely been labeled a misfire and a departure from Cruise’s recent run of mainstream successes. Some critics, however, have praised the film’s ambition and Cruise’s performance.
Digger is currently running in theaters.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.net.
