MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE IV In Cruise’s Sights

The law of diminishing returns.  The decrease in production level as the rate of production continues to increase.  Actor Tom Cruise has no use for such things, as, despite the waning box office take on the last MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE film, Paramount has signed him up for a fourth go-around as IMF member, Ethan Hunt.  The news comes to us from The Hollywood Reporter.

Despite Cruise being let go from Paramount in 2006, thanks in large part to the jump-on-the-couch-heard-’round-the-world, the two parties realize the potential a fourth film in the MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE franchise has.  Until now, Cruise’s name has only been attached to this latest film as only a producer along with MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III director J.J. Abrams.

Abrams has not signed on to direct MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE IV, though one would expect him to choose between either this project or the upcoming sequel to STAR TREK.  It doesn’t have to be one or the other, but one would hope he dedicates himself to only one of these projects.  It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him pass on directing MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE IV, particularly when you realize no director has returned to direct the next installment of the franchise.

So, who do you think would be a good choice to direct MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE IV?  Some are saying David Fincher, but his name always comes up when these high profile, tentpole movies are in need of a director.  Let us know your thoughts by shooting us a comment in the section below.

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE IV is set for a tentative release on Memorial Day weekend 2011.