After nearly three decades filled with death-defying stunts and complex disguise work, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is poised to bring Ethan Hunt’s epic journey to a dramatic close. Directed and written by Christopher McQuarrie, with collaboration from Erik Jendresen, the latest installment promises to be the biggest and boldest yet. With its release drawing near, Simon Pegg spoke with Collider to discuss Benji Dunn’s adventure, the evolving team dynamics, and the elements that make this “the final reckoning.”
In Collider’s Exclusive Preview event focusing on this summer’s major films, Pegg shared insights on all things related to Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. With stakes higher than ever before, and a title hinting at significant outcomes, Pegg was asked what makes this installment the defining climax. In true IMF fashion, he was tight-lipped, only teasing, “That’s not something I’m going to tell you. The only way to fully understand the implications of the title is to go see the movie. What I will say, is that everything has come to this.” This line feels apt for a franchise that has been building momentum for almost thirty years. For Pegg, who entered the series as Benji Dunn nearly two decades ago, it’s been an unexpected ride. Reflecting on Benji’s development and unexpected popularity, he said:
“Certainly not when I first portrayed him, almost 20 years ago. I assumed I was a bit of stunt casting off the back of Shaun of the Dead. Even when I got the call about Ghost Protocol, I had no idea the series would come as far as it has. Further installments are never a guarantee, even with tried and tested movies. I feel very lucky that I’ve been given the opportunity to return so many times.”
The franchise has sometimes toyed with the idea of passing the lead role, especially during Rogue Nation when Jeremy Renner‘s William Brandt seemed ready to take over. When asked how Benji would fare with the baton, Pegg noted that Ethan Hunt is more than just a role—he’s a necessity.
“One thing McQ and Tom focus on more than anything else, more than the big set pieces, is character. Benji is a technician, he’s very capable and grows as an agent with each successive mission, but he will never be Ethan. The characters aren’t interchangeable. That’s why they work so well as a team. Each agent has their own skill set and Benji’s does not involve hanging off airplanes or leaping off tall buildings. Under McQ’s masterful watch, the films have become about the necessity for collaboration in the field. A mission without Ethan Hunt would likely become Mission: Furious Typing.”
Pegg was also thrilled about the current cast, especially with the additions of Hannah Waddingham and the return of Angela Bassett. When asked about working with such talent, he shared, “Having them in the movie is so exciting. I love them both as people and actors. Not just these two incredible performers, but others such as Tramell Tillman—McQ and I are constantly texting each other about Severance—Katy O’Brian, Nick Offerman, Indira Varma, and Holt McCallany.” The film also sees franchise veterans like Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Vanessa Kirby, Esai Morales, Pom Klementieff, Henry Czerny, Angela Bassett, Mark Gatiss, Indira Varma, Shea Whigham, Greg Tarzan Davis, and Rolf Saxon returning.
Of course, the conversation inevitably turned to the franchise’s signature stunts. The teaser trailer showcases Tom Cruise continuing his streak of breathtaking stunts, yet Pegg was asked about Benji’s physical involvement this time around.
“Tom doesn’t do most of his stunts, he does ALL of his stunts. Our mantra has always been, the stunts are real. When you hand over to a stunt performer, the moment ceases to be about character and becomes all about the stunt. Tom and McQ know that those moments will become so much more impactful if it’s the actor in peril because the character remains present at all times. As for Benji’s physical exploits in this film, as TC always says, see you at the movies.”
Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning is set to hit theaters on May 23, 2025. Stay tuned for exclusive looks at the most anticipated releases of the summer.
