How ‘Mission: Impossible 2’ Revolutionized Bollywood Action Cinema

HOLLYWOOD, CA — As the 25th anniversary of ‘Mission: Impossible 2‘ approaches, the film’s influence on the action genre, particularly in Bollywood, is undeniable. Directed by John Woo and released on May 24, 2000, this installment of the franchise shifted from espionage to a unique blend of stylized action, showcasing Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt in ways never seen before.

‘Mission: Impossible 2’ grossed over half a billion dollars upon release, a figure that would inflate to a billion today. This success not only helped solidify Cruise as a global action star but also significantly influenced Bollywood’s action films.

Although the film did not open in India until September 2000, it quickly gained popularity, running for 13 weeks in theaters and becoming a staple on English-language TV channels. The stylistic elements Woo employed, characterized by slow-motion sequences and dramatic action, became evident in many mainstream Hindi films following its release.

Prior to ‘M:I 2’, action sequences in Bollywood often revolved around basic hand-to-hand combat or sporadic shootouts. The introduction of visually dynamic sequences in ‘M:I 2’, notably the thrilling cliffhanger involving Cruise, set a new standard. Woo’s influence can be strongly felt in the 2004 blockbuster ‘Dhoom‘, which featured adrenaline-fueled bike chases and heightened action aesthetics.

This progressive shift was further supported by the film’s stunts and dramatic moments, such as the climactic confrontation between Hunt and his doppelganger, Sean Ambrose. The artistry in these scenes—filmed against striking backdrops and infused with a sense of rhythm—has echoes in later Bollywood productions.

As action films in India began adopting the visual flair of Hollywood, the emphasis on grand entrances and stylized action became more pronounced. Key elements, such as heroes and villains portrayed with a degree of glamor and intensity, found roots in Woo’s cinematic language.

The visible impact of ‘M:I 2’ continued to reverberate up to 2023, where similarities can be seen in both Indian and Western action films. This ongoing evolution demonstrates how a Hollywood film can profoundly shape an industry across the globe.

John Woo’s masterful blend of romance and action in ‘M:I 2’ changed the way Bollywood approached its action narratives, illustrating the far-reaching effects of filmmaking beyond borders. Celebrating its 25-year legacy, it’s evident that ‘M:I 2’ catalyzed a transformation in action cinema for both Hollywood and Bollywood.