Tom Cruise Recalls Recommending Nicole Kidman for Eyes Wide Shut in Rare Reflection on Kubrick Era

In a rare public statement, Tom Cruise revealed that he was the one who suggested then-wife Nicole Kidman star opposite him in Stanley Kubrick’s 1999 psychological drama Eyes Wide Shut. Speaking in the May issue of Sight and Sound magazine, Cruise praised Kidman as a “great actress,” marking a notable acknowledgment of her talent. The film, known for its intense exploration of intimacy and secrecy, became one of Kubrick’s most discussed works, with Cruise and Kidman’s real-life relationship adding layers of intrigue to their on-screen roles.

Cruise’s interview comes as he receives the BFI Fellowship, the British Film Institute’s highest honor. This recognition places him alongside legendary cinematic figures such as Akira Kurosawa, Martin Scorsese, and Bette Davis. In celebration of this honor, Cruise is participating in a special “In Conversation” event at the BFI Southbank in London, reflecting on his storied career just days before the premiere of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning at the Cannes Film Festival.

Tom Cruise Reflects on Kubrick Collaboration and Val Kilmer’s Powerful Screen Presence

Cruise offered rare insights into the making of Eyes Wide Shut and his collaboration with Stanley Kubrick. He recalled being introduced to the director by Sydney Pollack and emphasized the depth of preparation and mutual understanding required before the film began production. Cruise admitted he knew the shoot would take longer than Kubrick initially predicted and committed fully to the extensive, evolving creative process. The film underwent constant rewriting and reshooting to refine its tone and impact, making it a uniquely immersive experience.

In a heartfelt segment of the interview, Cruise reminisced about working with Val Kilmer on the Top Gun films. He revealed the efforts made to get Kilmer on board for the original film and praised his charisma and instinctive performance style. Cruise described their dynamic on screen as electric and memorable, especially highlighting Kilmer’s brief but powerful appearance in Top Gun: Maverick. Kilmer’s return to the role of Iceman was described as “joyous” and deeply moving for Cruise.

Mastery Presence and Discovery in Acting with Legendary and Gifted Screen Partners

The actor also shared his admiration for co-stars like Jack Nicholson, discussing how seasoned performers command the camera and shape a scene. Reflecting on their shared work, Cruise likened their interactions to a musical performance, emphasizing spontaneity and mutual discovery during filming. He praised actors like Marlon Brando and Nicholson for their ability to manipulate presence, voice, and movement to create iconic moments, noting that true mastery often appears effortless.

Cruise concluded by reflecting on the deeper nature of acting, describing it as a continually renewing art where each moment and take is alive with possibility. He stressed the importance of preparation but also the necessity of being present and open to discovery. Whether collaborating with Kubrick, Kilmer, or Nicholson, Cruise highlighted the irreplaceable joy and energy that comes from sharing the screen with passionate, gifted artists.