Could Chloe Zhao Direct Mission: Impossible 9? What It Means for the Franchise (2026)

The Mission: Impossible franchise is no stranger to rumors, but this one might just be a game-changer. Brace yourself, action fans!

A recent whisper from the anonymous insider Deuxmoi suggests that Tom Cruise, the face of the franchise, is looking to shake things up for the ninth installment. And who's the rumored talent he's eyeing? None other than the acclaimed writer-director, Chloé Zhao. But here's where it gets intriguing... Zhao is known for her award-winning, intimate dramas, a far cry from the high-octane action the franchise is famous for.

According to the report, Cruise personally reached out to Zhao to write and direct the next Mission: Impossible film. This is a surprising twist, considering the last four films were helmed by Christopher McQuarrie, a close friend and frequent collaborator of Cruise. The duo has already begun crafting the story, with a script in development.

Now, this is where it gets controversial. While Deuxmoi's track record is a mixed bag due to its crowd-sourced nature, the idea of Cruise opting for a director with a penchant for awards over action expertise is a bold move. It could signal a fresh direction for the franchise, but it's a risky gamble.

Chloé Zhao is currently riding high on the success of her film Hamnet, a powerful drama about the Shakespeare family's tragedy. The movie is generating awards buzz, particularly for lead actress Jessie Buckley, who's a frontrunner for Best Actress at the upcoming Academy Awards.

As for Cruise, he's set to star in 'Digger', directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, a film that marks his return to the awards-centric spotlight. This shift in direction for Cruise could indicate a desire for a new challenge, and perhaps a new era for the Mission: Impossible franchise.

So, what do you think? Is this the breath of fresh air the franchise needs, or a risky move that might backfire? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And remember, in the world of Hollywood, anything is possible... even a Mission: Impossible without its signature action-packed style.

Could Chloe Zhao Direct Mission: Impossible 9? What It Means for the Franchise (2026)
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