Best to Worst: 7 Mission: Impossible Movies Ranked

Since its inception in 1996, the series has consistently delivered heart-pounding action, intricate plots, and memorable characters. With the release of the seventh installment, the franchise continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With its heart-pounding action, breathtaking stunts, and meticulously choreographed chase sequences, the franchise has set a new standard for adrenaline-fueled excitement in the realm of spy-thrillers.

Whether it's navigating through bustling city streets, weaving through traffic, or engaging in high-speed pursuits, the series consistently delivers jaw-dropping car chases that leave audiences at the edge of their seats. So, if you have a need for speed and a passion for cinematic thrills, the "Mission: Impossible" series is the perfect ticket to an exhilarating ride through some of the most iconic and unforgettable car chase moments in film history.

In this article, we delve into the world of IMF (Impossible Mission Force) and rank the seven Mission: Impossible movies from best to worst, considering their impact on the audience, critical reception, and the sheer adrenaline rush they provide.

Here's a ranking of the Mission: Impossible movies from best to worst:

1. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)
2. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)
3. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)
4. Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)
5. Mission: Impossible III (2006)
6. Mission: Impossible (1996)
7. Mission: Impossible II (2000)

1. Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018)

78% liked this movie

In "Mission: Impossible – Fallout" (2018), the car chase scenes elevate the film to a whole new level of excitement. One of the standout moments occurs in the bustling streets of Paris, where Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise, engages in a high-speed pursuit aboard a motorcycle against a villainous assassin. The sequence is a breathtaking ballet of precision driving, with Cruise performing his own stunts, weaving through traffic, darting around obstacles, and narrowly avoiding collisions.

Later in the film, an intense car chase unfolds through the picturesque streets of London. Here, audiences are treated to a thrilling display of vehicular acrobatics, as Hunt skillfully maneuvers a high-performance BMW through narrow alleys, across rooftops, and down staircases, all while being pursued by relentless adversaries. The visceral energy of these sequences is not only a testament to the film's meticulous choreography but also to Tom Cruise's dedication to performing his own daring stunts, adding an authentic intensity that resonates with viewers.

What sets these car chase scenes apart is their seamless integration into the narrative, propelling the story forward while keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. The combination of expertly executed practical effects, skilled driving, and Cruise's fearless commitment to realism creates a cinematic experience that car chase enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate. "Mission: Impossible – Fallout" raises the bar for car chase sequences, setting a new standard for adrenaline-pumping action in the franchise and leaving an indelible mark on the world of film.

2. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015)

84% liked this movie

In "Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation" (2015), the car chase scenes exemplify the franchise's commitment to delivering high-octane, pulse-pounding action. One of the most memorable moments occurs in the bustling streets of Casablanca, Morocco, where Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team engage in a breathtaking pursuit to capture a high-profile target.

During this sequence, Hunt commandeers a high-speed BMW M3 and embarks on a frenetic chase through the narrow, winding alleys of the Moroccan city. The scene is a masterclass in practical stunt work, featuring expertly choreographed driving and adrenaline-fueled maneuvers. Hunt skillfully navigates the tight corners and crowded marketplaces, showcasing his exceptional driving skills and nerves of steel.

What makes this car chase particularly remarkable is its seamless integration into the film's plot. Rather than being a gratuitous action sequence, it serves as a crucial moment in the mission, highlighting Hunt's resourcefulness and determination to achieve his objectives against all odds. The intensity of the chase, coupled with the exotic backdrop of Casablanca, adds layers of excitement and suspense, captivating audiences and leaving them at the edge of their seats.

"Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation" not only delivers a high-speed spectacle but also demonstrates the franchise's ability to craft car chase scenes that are not only visually stunning but also narratively significant, making it a standout installment in the series for car chase enthusiasts and action aficionados alike.

3. Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One (2023)

79% liked this movie

While "Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One" may have been released a few years after its optimal timing, it doesn't hinder the movie's appeal. The AI villain may come across as something you'd find in the "Fast & Furious" franchise, but Tom Cruise's undeniable movie magic manages to make it work. He presents Ethan Hunt with a fresh and enigmatic backstory that adds an intriguing layer to the character.

Of course, the stunts are a major highlight. In this installment, Cruise takes us on a wild ride as he navigates a small car through the bustling streets of Rome, engages in a thrilling fistfight in a cramped alleyway, and defies gravity by jumping off a cliff on a motorcycle. It's truly astonishing to witness the level of dedication and skill Cruise brings to these adrenaline-pumping sequences, especially considering he is 60 years old.

"Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One" promises to deliver not only the high-octane action the franchise is known for but also the awe-inspiring spectacle of Tom Cruise pushing his physical limits.

4. Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011)

82% liked this movie

"Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol" (2011) is renowned for its high-octane action sequences, although it does not feature traditional car chase scenes typical of other action movies. However, the film compensates with a remarkable chase involving a BMW i8, showcasing cutting-edge technology and inventive use of the car's unique features.

In this sequence, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his team employ the BMW i8, a hybrid sports car, during a pursuit in the streets of Dubai. While not a traditional high-speed chase, the scene is a marvel of precision driving, featuring the i8's impressive acceleration, nimble handling, and electric capabilities. The sequence includes daring maneuvers and stunts, such as driving on sand dunes and narrowly avoiding obstacles, highlighting the car's versatility.

What makes this sequence stand out is its innovative approach to a car chase. Instead of relying solely on speed, the filmmakers leverage the car's advanced technology to create a visually stunning and unique pursuit. The scene not only serves as a showcase for the BMW i8 but also adds a layer of sophistication to the film's action, aligning perfectly with the Mission: Impossible series' reputation for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in action filmmaking.

5. Mission: Impossible III (2006)

86% liked this movie

In "Mission: Impossible III" (2006), directed by J.J. Abrams, the film does not prominently feature traditional high-speed car chase scenes. However, it includes an intense and memorable car pursuit sequence set in Shanghai.

In this sequence, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) engages in a frantic chase through the streets of Shanghai to rescue his wife, Julia Meade (Michelle Monaghan). While not a traditional high-speed chase, this scene is characterized by its suspenseful and skillfully executed action. Hunt and his team pursue an enemy agent, weaving through the bustling streets and narrow alleyways of Shanghai. The sequence showcases impressive driving skills, clever maneuvering, and intense close-quarters action, all contributing to the film's overall tension and excitement.

What sets this car pursuit apart is its focus on tension and precision rather than sheer speed. The sequence captures the essence of the Mission: Impossible series, emphasizing strategic planning, resourcefulness, and daring maneuvers over straightforward high-speed chases. Despite the absence of breakneck speeds, the Shanghai car pursuit in "Mission: Impossible III" stands out as a gripping and adrenaline-fueled moment in the film, showcasing Ethan Hunt's ingenuity and determination in the face of danger.

6. Mission: Impossible (1996)

84% liked this movie

In the original "Mission: Impossible" film released in 1996 and directed by Brian De Palma, there isn't a traditional high-speed car chase scene typical of action movies. Instead, the film is characterized by its intricate plot, suspenseful sequences, and clever spy tactics. While it lacks a conventional car chase, it compensates with thrilling action sequences and intense moments that define the film's suspenseful atmosphere.

One notable vehicular moment in the movie involves a high-stakes pursuit on the TGV train. Ethan Hunt (played by Tom Cruise) and his team attempt to intercept an arms dealer on board a speeding train. While not a car chase in the traditional sense, this sequence is packed with suspense, featuring daring maneuvers, close-quarter combat, and breathtaking stunts.

While "Mission: Impossible" (1996) may not have a classic car chase scene, it lays the foundation for the series, emphasizing intelligence, strategy, and innovation over pure speed. The film's focus on intricate plotting and high-stakes action has become a trademark of the Mission: Impossible franchise, setting the stage for the thrilling sequences and impossible missions that would follow in subsequent films.

7. Mission: Impossible II (2000)

82% liked this movie

In "Mission: Impossible II" (2000), directed by John Woo, the film features an exhilarating car chase sequence that adds to the movie's high-octane action.

The car chase takes place in the streets of Sydney, Australia, and involves Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) pursuing the film's antagonist, Sean Ambrose (played by Dougray Scott). In this sequence, Hunt commandeers a high-performance sports car and engages in a high-speed pursuit through the city. The chase is characterized by fast-paced driving, sharp turns, narrow escapes, and intense moments, showcasing both Hunt's exceptional driving skills and the film's emphasis on adrenaline-fueled action.

What makes this car chase stand out is its dynamic choreography and the incorporation of Woo's signature style, which includes dramatic camera angles, slow-motion shots, and intense close-ups, creating a visually striking and suspenseful sequence. The car chase in "Mission: Impossible II" is a testament to the film's commitment to delivering thrilling action moments, adding to the overall excitement of the movie and cementing its place in the Mission: Impossible series.