Actor Tom Cruise urges actors to learn filmmaking tech study at BFI's Chair dinner

ANI May 13, 2025 363 views

Tom Cruise emphasized the importance of actors understanding filmmaking technology while accepting the BFI Fellowship. He criticized film schools for not teaching essential skills like lighting and camera work. The actor shared his advice on studying classic films and editing techniques, citing Marlon Brando as an example. Cruise also revealed he created a six-hour film school tutorial for aspiring performers.

"Understand the art form to that degree. Brando absolutely understood lighting; all the greats did." – Tom Cruise
Actor Tom Cruise urges actors to learn filmmaking tech study at BFI's Chair dinner
London, May 13: Actor Tom Cruise urged the actors to learn about the craft of filmmaking while receiving a British Film Institute fellowship at the annual BFI Chair's Dinner in London on Monday.

Key Points

1

Cruise criticizes film schools for neglecting tech training

2

Stresses actors must learn lighting and camera blocking

3

Recommends studying old films and editing techniques

4

Shares his own six-hour film school guide

According to Variety, the A-list actor bemoaned film schools for failing to teach production tools and filmmaking technology to aspiring actors.

He believes that actors must know about "lighting" and "camera blocking" to become good performers.

"It is important to understand the tools around you. There is tech. It is like understanding the stage as an actor, but for a lot of artists it is not taught in film school: how to understand the lens and what it can do, and why there is eye movement and recognise the effect it has," said Tom Cruise as quoted by Variety.

While addressing the attendees at the BFI Chair's dinner, Tom asked the actor to spend time in the "editing room" and study "old movies" to use them for their benefit, as many great actors like Marlon Brando did during their time.

"I always tell actors: spend time in the editing room, produce a movie, study old movies, recognise what the composition is giving you, know what those lenses are, understand the lighting and how to use it for your benefit. Understand the art form to that degree. Brando absolutely understood lighting; all the greats did," said Tom Cruise as quoted by Variety.

The actor Cruise is so adamant about actors learning filmmaking craft that he put together his own six-hour film school video to show up-and-coming performers, reported Variety.

The BFI Fellowship recognises Cruise's achievements as an extraordinary, versatile actor whose career has spanned everything from critically acclaimed dramas and romances to dark thrillers and high-octane action films.

It also considers the huge contribution by the actor to the UK film industry, as he chose to shoot numerous films, including many Mission: Impossible films, on location in London, Birmingham, North Yorkshire, the Lake District, the Peak District, and more.

Meanwhile, Cruise's next studio tentpole is his last 'Mission: Impossible' movie, 'The Final Reckoning,' in U.S. theatres on May 23 from Paramount Pictures.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 authentic Indian perspective comments in the requested format:
R
Rahul K.
Tom Cruise is absolutely right! In Bollywood too, actors who understand filmmaking like Farhan Akhtar or Rajkummar Rao deliver more nuanced performances. Our film schools should focus more on practical knowledge rather than just theory. 🎬
P
Priya M.
While I respect Tom Cruise's dedication, not every actor needs to be a technician. Some of our greatest actors like Amitabh Bachchan focused purely on performance. Different approaches work for different people.
A
Arjun S.
This is why Tom Cruise's action sequences look so authentic! He understands every aspect of filmmaking. Indian actors should take note - especially those doing action films where knowledge of camera angles is crucial for safety and impact.
S
Shweta R.
Interesting perspective! In India, many star kids get opportunities without any formal training. Maybe they should at least learn the technical aspects if not go to film school. Tom's 6-hour film school video sounds useful - hope someone makes an Indian version!
V
Vikram J.
Tom Cruise is a perfectionist no doubt, but Indian cinema has its own charm with spontaneous performances. Our masala movies thrive on raw energy more than technical precision. Still, good advice for serious actors in parallel cinema.
N
Neha P.
As someone who studied at FTII, I completely agree! Our curriculum needs updating. Many graduates struggle on sets because they don't understand basic lighting or camera positions. More practical training would help bridge the gap between art and commerce in Indian cinema.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Tom Cruise BFI Fellowship Filmmaking tips Acting techniques Mission Impossible