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Tom Cruise is one of the most recognizable stars with a global fame that few other actors have experienced. During his lengthy career that started in the 1980s, Cruise has gone from strength to strength as an actor, establishing himself as one of the most bankable commercial stars in Hollywood with his movies grossing billions of dollars globally.
In 2003, Cruise starred in the period action-drama filmThe Last Samurai, which marked the start of his long relationship with Japan and its culture. During an interview, Cruise spoke about his preparation for the movie and revealed the great lengths he went to assimilate into the Japanese culture. Here is what Cruise had to say, which proves the actor deserves his own day in Japan.
Tom Cruise Recalled His Intense Training ForThe Last Samurai
Tom Cruiseplayed the role of Captain Nathan Algren in 2003’sThe Last Samurai. Aside from praise for Cruise’s performance, the film went on to gross $454.6 million at the globalbox office, emerging as a commercial success.
In an interview withBlack Film, Cruise was asked about his preparation for the demanding role. The actor spoke about the grueling stunt training he had to undergo to convincingly play a samurai.
I could not touch my toes when I started. All the training…I had done stunts before, but I knew I would have to carry fifty pounds of armor.
Cruise made the above statement, explaining the samurai armor added pressure to his knees,making things difficult during the fight scenes.
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However, the grueling training made Cruise appreciate the samurai values and they translated into his personal life. Cruise stated that the samurai’s nature to help others resonated with him the most. As a result, Cruise’s experience with the movie brought him closer to Japanese culture.
October 10 is Celebrated as Tom Cruise Day in Japan
Cruise’s association with the nation of Japan and its culture resulted in a rare achievement in 2006. According to a report fromHollywood.com, the Japan Memorial Day Association announced that October 10 would be celebrated annually as Tom Cruise Day in the country.
The JMDA revealed that Cruise was awarded his own day because of his love for and close association with Japan, which saw him spend time in the country, interacting with fans more than any other Hollywood star.
Furthermore, the actor also took a trip on the bullet train from Osaka to Tokyo while promotingMission: Impossible 3.
When I go to Japan, it’s so different. I am absolutely fascinated and in awe of the culture. I find it aesthetic and the people are fascinating.
Cruise stated the above in the same interview, underlining his interest in Japanese culture, and expressed a desire to spend more time in the country.
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Ultimately, Cruise’s love for Japan, its lifestyle, values, and culture is on display through the actor’s words and actions. As a result, it is no surprise that the country reciprocated this love and appreciation by observing October 10 as Tom Cruise Day every year.
The Last Samuraiis streaming on Max.
Pratik Handore
Content Writer
Articles Published :1774
With a keen interest in comic book movies and blockbuster franchises, Pratik usually covers news and updates on the DCU, MCU, Star Wars, and more.A die-hard fan of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Pratik spends most of his time exploring different storytelling mediums that invoke a sense of wonder and adventure. Other filmmakers whose works have deeply influenced him include Alfred Hitchcock, James Gunn, and Guillermo del Toro.
