Tom Cruise’s Ambitious Plan to Film in Space Hits Roadblocks
Tom Cruise’s long-discussed ambition to film a movie in outer space appears to have stalled, with new reports suggesting political considerations and shifting priorities within NASA played a key role in halting progress.
The project, first explored publicly in 2020, would have seen Cruise and director Doug Liman shoot scenes aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX. At the time, the idea received public backing from then–NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, who had been appointed by President Donald Trump.
However, according to recent reports, the project required deeper levels of government coordination than initially anticipated. Sources claim Cruise was reluctant to make a direct request involving the president, consistent with his long-standing effort to remain publicly apolitical. Throughout his career, the actor has avoided political endorsements and has rarely been associated with partisan activity.
Page Six reports that this hesitation may have contributed to the project losing momentum. Earlier this year, Cruise also reportedly declined a Kennedy Center Honor from President Trump, citing scheduling conflicts rather than political reasons.
Following Bridenstine’s departure from NASA, internal enthusiasm for facilitating a Hollywood production in space appears to have diminished. Individuals familiar with the space community say there have been no recent discussions within the agency about supporting such a film. Questions surrounding feasibility, insurance, and the overall risk of a space-based shoot have further complicated the project’s prospects.
There were also rumors that Doug Liman faced medical clearance issues related to spaceflight, though a separate source disputed this claim and stated the director is in good physical condition. Both Liman and Cruise have since been occupied with other commitments, including Cruise’s recent Mission: Impossible release and several projects scheduled for 2026.
Meanwhile, President Trump’s relationship with Hollywood continues to draw attention. Reports indicate he has supported efforts to revive Brett Ratner’s Rush Hour franchise at Paramount, signaling a notable development in the entertainment industry.
As for the space film, Liman has said he still hopes to make it someday—but only if it can transcend its technical novelty and stand as a meaningful, enduring work of cinema. For now, Tom Cruise’s journey to space remains grounded, caught between political realities and the immense challenges of filmmaking beyond Earth.
