The New York Times reports that Paramount chairman Brad Grey is facing a tough decision: Whether to proceed with production of the hugely expensive "Mission: Impossible III," even as its star Tom Cruise is puzzling associates and members of the public with his behavior while promoting another Paramount venture, "War of the Worlds."
An executive for Viacom said the studio had not yet decided whether to push ahead with production, despite the tens of millions of dollars it has already been spent. Shooting was planned to begin in Italy on July 18th and to continue on location in Europe and elsewhere. Other executives say the production became an issue in recent days as the budget has climbed well over $150 million.
While promoting "War of the Worlds" over the last several weeks, Cruise has apparently engaged in an increasingly public discussion of his religion, Scientology - most notably a controversial interview with German outlet Der Spiegel.
Tongues have also been wagging over his performance on a recent "Oprah" during which he jumped around the set repeatedly professing his love for new girlfriend Katie Holmes despite many comments in the media claiming the whole Cruise/Holmes things a media stunt as both have big movies opening this month.
Cruise' publicist said she had not heard that plans for "Mission: Impossible III" were under review, and added that Mr. Cruise was in training for the film's stunts.
Thanks to 'Devon'.
