In a strategic move to revive the ailing movie theatre industry, Hollywood icon Tom Cruise has entered into a ground-breaking collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery.
The partnership, announced on Tuesday, will focus on the development and production of both original and franchise theatrical films, with projects set to roll out as early as this year, according to CNN.
The joint venture aims to reinvigorate Warner Bros., with Cruise expressing his enthusiasm on Instagram, stating, "Excited to share this news. I look forward to making great movies together!"
Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group co-chairs and CEOs, Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy, shared their excitement, praising Cruise as an "absolute legend in the film industry" and expressing their vision to restore the studio to its former glory.
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO and president, David Zaslav, played a pivotal role in fostering the partnership, aligning Cruise with the studio's mission to reclaim its prominent status in the industry.
While specific details about upcoming projects remain undisclosed in Tuesday's announcement, Cruise's longstanding history with Warner Bros. suggests a promising collaboration.
The actor has previously starred in iconic films under the studio's banner, including "Edge of Tomorrow", "Rock of Ages", "Magnolia", "Eyes Wide Shut" and "Risky Business."
Cruise has actively encouraged audiences to choose cinemas over at-home streaming platforms, particularly amid the challenges posed by the pandemic. Notably, his efforts were recognized by director Steven Spielberg, who credited Cruise's 2022 blockbuster "Top Gun: Maverick" with potentially saving the entire theatrical industry.
The sequel achieved global success, grossing nearly $1.5 billion worldwide since its September 2022 release and securing the fifth spot in North American history's highest-grossing films.
