Tom Cruise performing the motorcycle stunt in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One highlights the importance of an intriguing aspect of post-cinematic form: indexicality—the idea that audiences can connect to the physical reality of an event depicted on screen. This indexical connection is key to the appeal of Cruise’s films, as viewers appreciate knowing that these incredible stunts physically occurred. Post-cinema’s “affective and sensational” power (Denson & Leyda, 2016) is evident in how the spectacle of Cruise’s stunts can make men form parasocial relationships with him, viewing him as a real action hero embodying the masculine fantasies of thrill and danger.

Moreover, the integration of social media into film culture transforms traditional cinematic forms, reshaping how they are consumed and how audiences engage with them (Denson & Leyda, 2016). This involves a new level of media interaction, allowing viewers to witness behind-the-scenes footage that deepens their fascination with the actor’s real-life bravery. This interplay between stunt realism and the increasingly hybrid forms of digital media demonstrates that realism isn’t just about witnessing physical actions unfold; it’s also about how these moments are shared, discussed, and incorporated into the viewer’s broader digital experience.

In today’s post-cinematic landscape, where digital effects dominate action sequences, Cruise’s dedication to practical stunts adds a unique layer of authenticity.  Denson and Leyda (2016) discuss how post-cinematic forms challenge traditional boundaries of media. While CGI can create spectacular action scenes, Cruise’s stunts embody realism that digital simulations cannot fully achieve. Here, Steven Shaviro’s concept of post-continuity applies, where stunts are no longer just a narrative device but a part of the immersive spectacle, providing spatial realism that CGI may struggle to replicate.

However, in the post-cinematic landscape, realism and sensationalism are no longer opposites but intertwined. Cruise’s stunts, although physically real, are amplified by visual effects that intensify the audience’s sense of immersion. This creates a new kind of realism that is part physical, part digital. As Denson argues, post-cinematic forms blur the line between reality and simulation, shaping a new “structure of feeling” in how films impact viewers.

22/10/24

Simrah