Published May 5, 2026, 12:30 PM EDT This article will self-destruct in five seconds Image: Paramount/Everett Collection Mission: Impossible 2 was terrible. After the first film revived a long-dead 1960s TV show with a solid spy thriller featuring some of the best action sequences of the decade, the follow-up was a mess. Directed by John Woo, the film turned into a showcase for the legendary Hong Kong filmmaker's directorial flourishes, most notably his overuse of slow motion and his laughably over the top action sequences ( like the famous motorcycle duel ). In other words, Woo wasn't particularly interested in setting up Tom Cruise 's Ethan Hunt as the face of a franchise that could keep going for another two decades. Thankfully, Mission: Impossible III came along and paved the way with clean directing that showcased the action, a solid spy plotline, and a villain who still stands as the best in the franchise. Image: Paramount/Everett Collection Directed by J. J.…