Abu Dhabi’s bustling international airport had an air of Hollywood on Sunday when iconic actor Tom Cruise graced the newly launched Midfield Terminal for the Middle East premiere of “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.” The Mission: Impossible franchise has once again turned to the grandeur of the UAE, with the new installment featuring one of its thrilling stunts on the terminal’s curved dune-shaped roof, providing a unique cinematic showcase of the structure.
Cruise’s spectacle of arrival kickstarts Mission: Impossible celebrations
Continuing the star-studded spectacle, Cruise unveiled the new livery on an Etihad Airways Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The aircraft boasts Mission: Impossible branding on its engines, a mark that will journey with the plane across global destinations. The UAE’s national airline has joined the cinematic journey as the official airline for the new film, set to hit the UAE screens on July 9. In tandem with the high-profile arrival, the Midfield Terminal is adorned with Mission: Impossible branding to celebrate its pivotal role in the film.
Mission: Impossible shooting in the Liwa Desert: A display of grandeur
Adding to the film’s regional magnificence, the production included scenes in the Liwa Desert, the preparation and shooting of which spanned over a month. A staggering 762 individuals – encompassing cast, crew, and suppliers – were involved in the week-long filming. As part of the unique film sets, an Etihad First Class Lounge was recreated, reflecting the luxury synonymous with the airline and the UAE.
Anticipation surges for regional premiere: Cruise and cast expected
The regional premiere of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One is slated for Monday at the lavish Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. Anticipation is high with several film talents, including Cruise, director Christopher McQuarrie, and stars Simon Pegg, Hayley Atwell, and Pom Klementieff expected to grace the event. Simon Pegg has already shared his in-flight experience with his followers, highlighting the movie-themed menu, special cupcake, and a bag of popcorn sporting the film’s name.
Mission: Impossible – A recurring feature in the UAE
This isn’t the first instance of the Mission: Impossible franchise finding a shooting hub in the UAE. “Mission: Impossible – Fallout” featured a high-altitude skydiving scene in Abu Dhabi, produced with the aid of the UAE military, Abu Dhabi Film Commission, and twofour54. Moreover, “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” showcased a heart-stopping scene of Cruise’s character scaling Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa. This recurring choice of UAE for the franchise attests to the region’s rising prominence in global filmmaking.