Mission: Impossible: Jeremy Renner Replacing Tom Cruise in the Movie Franchise?

Though only loosely related to the 1960s TV show, the first three Mission: Impossible films have made a whole lot of money for the studio. Starring Tom Cruise, the first two made a billion dollars combined. The third didn’t make as much which is why it’s been four years before there’s talk of making another one.

Last February, it was reported that a fourth Mission: Impossible movie was in the works. Initially, it sounded like a run-of-the-mill sequel but now it looks like it may be a reboot of sorts. In fact, it won’t be called Mission: Impossible IV and may not have Mission: Impossible in the title at all, ala the Batman sequel The Dark Knight.

According to Variety, numerous changes are being made to hold down the studio’s upfront costs.

While past films have shown Ethan Hunt (Cruise) working with a team of agents, the fourth installment will team Hunt with one other agent, played by Jeremy Renner (The Hurt Locker). The studio is reportedly hoping that Cruise will be part of future films but if things go well, Renner’s character will become the main focus. A key factor in past budgets has been Cruise’s substantial salary.

The fourth Mission: Impossible movie is set to begin production in the fall. Shooting will take place in the United States, Vancouver, Prague, and Dubai. This will be the first live-action feature film for director Brad Bird (Iron Giant, The Incredibles).

What do you think? Do you enjoy the Mission: Impossible movies? Do you think shaking up the format is a good idea?