British television viewers are in for a classic cinematic treat tonight as the film that ignited one of Hollywood's most enduring action franchises hits the small screen. The original 'Mission: Impossible' movie, released in 1996, is set to air on BBC Three at 10pm.
The Film That Built a Franchise
Directed by the legendary Brian De Palma, known for classics like 'Carrie' and 'The Untouchables', this spy thriller launched a series that concluded only last year after generating billions at the global box office. The film stars Tom Cruise as IMF agent Ethan Hunt, who is framed for the murders of his own team and must uncover the real traitor.
While the plot was sometimes criticised for being convoluted, the movie was a major commercial success, becoming the third-highest-grossing film of 1996. It also features a stellar supporting cast including Jon Voight, Ving Rhames, Jean Reno, and Vanessa Redgrave.
A Legacy of Action and Suspense
The film is widely credited with establishing the template for the high-stakes, gadget-filled adventures that followed. Amid its famous face-swapping and action sequences, one scene in particular has entered cinematic lore. The nerve-shredding break-in at CIA headquarters, with Cruise's Hunt suspended from a ceiling, remains a benchmark for tension and is still hailed as a classic set piece today.
Beyond the screen, the film's influence extended to the music charts. A dance version of the iconic theme, performed by U2's Larry Mullen Jr. and Adam Clayton, became an international top-ten hit and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Instrumental Performance.
Critical Reception and Fan Adoration
Critical opinions were mixed upon release, with the film currently holding a 67% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Publications like Radio Times advised audiences to enjoy the "epic rollercoaster ride" and not get bogged down in the complex narrative, while The Boston Phoenix was less forgiving, criticising its "tortured and implausible plotting".
However, the film has garnered a passionate following among fans over the decades. Many praise its sophisticated plot twists, well-developed characters, and the grounded suspense that some feel later entries struggled to replicate. One fan noted it was "one of the most underrated films", celebrating its blend of action and cerebral storytelling.
For those wanting to see where the globe-trotting saga began, or simply to revisit a slice of 1990s action cinema crafted by a master director, 'Mission: Impossible' airs tonight, Monday, on BBC Three at 10pm.
