Tue May 27 15:20:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**’Mission: Impossible’ Ranked: THR Declares ‘Fallout’ the Franchise’s Peak**

**LOS ANGELES, CA** – The Hollywood Reporter (THR) has published a definitive ranking of all ‘Mission: Impossible’ films, from the 1996 original to the latest installment, ‘The Final Reckoning.’

THR credits star Tom Cruise’s commitment to elaborate practical stunts and savvy choice of collaborators for the franchise’s evolution into a reliable modern action powerhouse. Like his IMF agent character Ethan Hunt, Cruise relentlessly pursues cinematic excellence, delivering blockbuster thrills time and again.

The ranking places the John Woo-directed ‘Mission: Impossible II’ at the bottom, citing a muddy narrative and underwhelming villain. J.J. Abrams’ ‘Mission: Impossible III’ receives praise for introducing Simon Pegg and Philip Seymour Hoffman, but falls short on memorable set pieces. ‘The Final Reckoning’ is criticized for a convoluted plot and heavy reliance on exposition despite some impressive action sequences. Brian De Palma’s original ‘Mission: Impossible’ is lauded for its suspenseful infiltration sequence but shows its age. ‘Ghost Protocol’ earns recognition for its humor, Burj Khalifa climb, and strong ensemble cast, but is held back by a weak final act. ‘Dead Reckoning’ boasts impressive set pieces but suffers from familiar elements and a convoluted plot.

Christopher McQuarrie’s ‘Rogue Nation’ claims the second spot, celebrated for its cohesive story, captivating female lead in Rebecca Ferguson, and the mesmerizing Vienna Opera sequence.

Topping the list is ‘Fallout,’ deemed the franchise’s best due to its effective story, ensemble, villain (Henry Cavill), and action sequences. THR compares it favorably to ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ and even calls it the best James Bond movie since ‘Casino Royale.’

[https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/mission-impossible-movies-ranked-1235926759/](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/mission-impossible-movies-ranked-1235926759/)

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