Movies

Tom Cruise’s Secret Meeting with Dustin Hoffman That Led to ‘Rain Man’

BBG News

Prior to being given the opportunity to play Ethan Hunt in the Mission: Impossible series, Tom Cruise spent decades striving to demonstrate that he was more than just a action star. He collaborated with esteemed directors such as Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese, and eventually showcased his acting talents in the comedy-drama Rain Man, directed by Barry Levinson. The film Rain Man was a significant breakthrough for Cruise, but landing the role wasn’t initially part of his plan. Recently, he has shared what measures he had to take to secure the part.

According to Variety’s report, Tom Cruise, known for his roles in films like “Jerry Maguire” and “Eyes Wide Shut,” was recently in London to accept the BFI Fellowship at the British Film Institute. This honor is the organization’s highest recognition. Currently promoting the new “Mission: Impossible” film titled “The Final Reckoning,” Cruise also reminisced about his past roles and shared a story about meeting Dustin Hoffman, his co-star in “Rain Man.” The meeting took place in a restaurant in New York City back in 1984. It happened only because Tom’s sister, Cass, urged him to approach the esteemed Hollywood actor who starred in “The Graduate” and “Midnight Cowboy.

She exclaimed, ‘There’s Dustin Hoffman!’ I glanced over and indeed, there he was, in a hat, engrossed in Death of a Salesman and arranging takeout. She suggested that I should approach him and greet him. However, I hesitated, stating that I wasn’t comfortable doing so. She mentioned that we were acquainted, having seen his movies, which was unusual as she doesn’t typically behave this way. Additionally, I don’t usually initiate conversations with strangers, but her persistence was remarkable.

When Cruise’s sister threatened, “If you don’t take action, I’ll reveal your identity to him,” she managed to persuade him. Eventually, he agreed to the task and talked to the actor: “I apologetically said, ‘Mr. Hoffman, I’m sorry,’ to which he responded, ‘Cruise!'” Hoffman then invited them to watch the Death of a Salesman play, and as they parted ways, the agreement was sealed: “We shook hands and made it official.

Upon my departure, he expressed, “I’d like to create a film with you.” To which I replied, “That sounds delightful, sir.” And indeed, that became a reality, and about a year thereafter, he arranged for Rain Man.

‘Rain Man’ Has One of Tom Cruise’s Best Non-Action Performances

In the film “Rain Man,” Tom Cruise portrays Charlie Babbitt, a selfish and money-driven automobile dealer who learns of his father’s demise. Eager to inherit, Charlie discovers that his late father has bequeathed him only a car; the remainder of the estate is earmarked for an institution caring for an individual unknown to Charlie – his older brother, Raymond (portrayed by Dustin Hoffman).

Raymond is an individual diagnosed with autism, yet possesses an extraordinary ability to tackle complex mathematical problems. Charlie, driven by determination, makes the decision to retrieve his sibling from the institution, attempting to persuade others of his capability to provide care. However, his true intention lies in the potential financial gain. A spontaneous road trip with his newfound brother initiates a transformative journey for Charlie, a young man brimming with ambition, who will discover that his priorities will undergo a significant shift.

Upon its debut, Rain Man was widely praised by critics. It garnered eight Academy Award nominations and won four, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Hoffman), and Best Original Screenplay. Although Tom Cruise wasn’t nominated himself, the movie served as a turning point for him. In fact, Rain Man topped the box office in 1988, demonstrating that Cruise could attract audiences with a strong performance without relying on death-defying stunts.

Read More

2025-05-12 19:14

Previous post Leon Thomas Announces Deluxe Edition of ‘MUTT’
Next post 90s Dance Icon Stuns Fans With New Look—Can You Guess Who She Is 25 Years After Her Hit?