Why Ilsa Faust’s Death in Dead Reckoning Makes No Sense and Ruins the Franchise

The upcoming movie, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, is almost here, and it’s poised to deliver an appropriate ending to the cherished action series that was launched in 1996 with Brian de Palma’s iconic thriller. Over the years, the franchise has experienced its share of ups and downs, but most fans would agree that Dead Reckoning is one of the finest Mission: Impossible films. Not only does it effectively lay the groundwork for what’s to come in the last chapter, but it also signifies a new phase for the franchise, one that emphasizes strong character development and compelling storytelling.

In “Dead Reckoning,” some truly remarkable stunts from the “Mission: Impossible” series are showcased, such as the legendary motorcycle leap and the climactic train collision. However, what truly distinguishes this movie from its early sequels is its compelling narrative. The addition of Hayley Atwell’s character, Grace, was a brilliant move that provided Ethan Hunt with a familiar face to maintain his footing. Furthermore, the roles of Benji and Luther grew significantly in significance, reinforcing the series’ themes of camaraderie and selflessness. However, there’s one choice in “Dead Reckoning” that, while logical on its own, appears puzzling when viewed within the broader context of the franchise.

Ilsa Faust’s Death In Dead Reckoning Didn’t Make Sense

There Was No Reason For The Character To Die In That Moment

In the movie “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning,” Gabriel’s killing of Ilsa Faust midway through is arguably its most contentious scene, and it struggles to stand up when examined closely. What makes this act questionable is that Ilsa willingly gives up her life for a stranger, an action that appears unexpected given her character history. Additionally, there’s little evidence provided in the film to support the notion that Gabriel is stronger than the multitude of people Ilsa has previously eliminated. While he benefits from the entity’s backing, it remains unclear why he should have been able to overcome her in a one-on-one fight.

It appears that the character’s death in “Mission: Impossible” might have been more for dramatic effect rather than a substantial plot point, but that doesn’t mean we should lose one of the series’ most beloved characters. While it’s theoretically possible that Ilsa could reappear in “The Final Reckoning,” it seems highly improbable and would diminish the impact of her previous death scene. The movie has already employed a fake-out death for Ilsa once, so another such revelation in the final film might feel disappointing and undermine the original scene’s significance.

Rebecca Ferguson Was The Best Part Of Recent Mission: Impossible Sequels

The Actor Brought A New Dimension To The Series

Ever since her debut in “Rogue Nation,” Rebecca Ferguson has stood out as an exceptional newcomer within the “Mission: Impossible” series. The way her relationship with Ethan has unfolded and evolved over time, from adversarial professionals to close friends willing to risk everything for each other’s safety, has been nothing short of captivating.

In a different phrasing: Ilsa’s survival until the end isn’t required, but the manner in which Dead Reckoning portrayed her death seemed hasty and insignificant. Given that The Final Reckoning is expected to be the most significant and emotional episode in this series, it would have been fitting to delay her heartbreaking farewell for this grand finale.

Ilsa’s Death Was Purely Used To Set Up Gabriel As Ethan’s Nemesis

Hunt Needed To Lose Somebody To Make The Fight Personal

In contrast, arguing that Ilsa’s death in “Dead Reckoning” seems illogical doesn’t mean it lacks significance. On the contrary, this tragic event serves as a powerful motivation for Ethan to battle Gabriel, who collaborates with the Entity. The two spies have a strained past; it is in “Dead Reckoning” that we learn Gabriel was behind Marie’s murder, a crime for which Ethan was falsely accused before ultimately deciding to join the IMF.

The Entity strategically orchestrates Ilsa’s (or Grace’s) murder to fuel the hostility between Ethan and Gabriel, thereby guaranteeing that if Ethan manages to overcome Gabriel, his anger will lead him to kill Gabriel, thus revealing the Entity’s hidden truth. In the grand scheme of the story, Ilsa’s death serves a purpose, but it doesn’t lessen the pain felt by her absence. The Final Reckoning may seem incomplete without her presence, but it was an unnecessary complication that could have been prevented.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning will be released on May 21, 2025.

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2025-05-17 00:07

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