Furthermore, Ghost Protocol also serves as a plea for grace from Cruise himself as well. It is no secret that much has been written about Tom Cruise's "fall from grace" in the eyes of the public. Speaking out openly about his belief in Scientology, jumping on couches, etc., Cruise's star has lost its shine and, whether fair or not, both the media and the public have turned against him in recent years. (Even Will Ferrell took his shot.) So, when another Mission was announced, many people met the news with groans and yawns. In fact, when this particular film was announced, rumors even began to surface that Cruise may be replaced.

With that in mind, I find it interesting that Ghost Protocol begins with Cruise's Ethan Hunt portrayed as a castoff from the public himself. Discarded from the world and sitting alone in a Russian prison, Hunt sits patiently, waiting for someone to come get him. One member of the team even asks the question, "Why do we need him again?" It's as if Cruise himself was waiting to remind people of his inherent value. I picture him saying: "No, I'm not perfect... but can we please focus on my body of work instead of my personal life?" Like Hunt and his team within the film's narrative, Cruise too seeks to receive grace from those who were so hard on him. (Incidentally, I once noted a similar theme in my review of Michael Jackson's This Is It. You can read it here, if you're interested.)

No, Ghost Protocol is not a "message" movie in any sense of the word. It more than lives up to the hype with its dynamic stunt work and exciting special effects. Nonetheless, it is also true to say that the film exhibits strong themes that powerfully illustrate Man's desire for grace and healing for the broken. In other words, Ghost Protocol offers a clear picture of a culture that is searching for hope and forgiveness from their past. As a Christian, I believe that this healing comes from God alone. There will be those that disagree, of course, but I believe that the love of Jesus Christ offers us freedom from our past and hope for the future. No, our past can never be erased but we can move forward with the knowledge that we are not imprisoned by it anymore. This is the over-arching theme that truly ignites Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol, making it more than a mere action film.

But, seriously. Dubai, baby. Dubai

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