10 Unbelievable Mission Impossible Facts

We now move from the worst film in the franchise to Fallout, the crown jewel of the spy action franchise and arguable action classic. It's sequel escalation done right and works as a showcase of the ingredients that makes the franchise a staple of action cinema. Its set-pieces are among the best in the series and their emphasis on in-camera stunt work and practicality is jaw-dropping.

The film's first set-piece immediately lets audiences know that this is a different breed of action. The HALO (High Altitude Low Opening) jump is a one-take wonder with stunning visuals and chilling tension as Ethan Hunt attempts to rescue rogue CIA agent August Walker when the jump goes awry.

Preparation for the HALO jump kicked off with simple wind machine testing, in order for Cruise to have a simulated feel of the forces at play when hurtling towards the Earth at blazing speeds. This was followed by 105 practice jumps at different altitudes for Cruise to be certified to jump from 25,000 feet (little over 8 kilometres) and make it down to the ground in one piece (and not hit the cameraman or Henry Cavill's stunt double in the process).

The final product is a perfect example of Tom Cruise's unwavering commitment to pushing his body and cinematic technology for our entertainment.