Priyanka Chopra Jonas Opens Up on Daring Stunts, Acknowledging Akshay Kumar and Tom Cruise
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, a global icon and powerhouse performer, recently sparked considerable buzz with a remarkably candid statement about her approach to high-octane action sequences. While promoting her latest Amazon Prime Video film, *Heads of State*, at its star-studded London premiere, the actress made an intriguing comparison, openly acknowledging the unparalleled bravery of two action titans: Bollywood’s Akshay Kumar and Hollywood’s Tom Cruise.
Her comments quickly resonated, especially given the historical context surrounding her and Akshay Kumar’s past. The rare mention highlighted her professional admiration, cutting through any past whispers and focusing purely on the impressive dedication these actors bring to their craft.
The Perilous Path: Why Some Stunts Are Beyond Even Her
In a revealing conversation with India Today, Priyanka expressed genuine awe for actors who routinely push the boundaries of cinematic action. “I love what Tom Cruise and Akshay Kumar do. They’re really good at that,” she stated, referring to their penchant for performing incredibly dangerous stunts without the aid of doubles.
However, despite her own fearless on-screen persona, she confessed a personal boundary. “But, I don’t think I have the courage to hang off a plane that’s taking off or doing that kind of stuff,” she admitted with refreshing honesty. This admission offers a unique glimpse into the mindset of a performer who, while embracing action, maintains a clear understanding of personal limits versus cinematic artistry.
Akshay Kumar and Tom Cruise: Masters of Realism in Action
Both Akshay Kumar and Tom Cruise have carved out legendary careers through their unwavering commitment to practical stunts. Akshay Kumar, often dubbed the “Khiladi” of Bollywood, has consistently performed jaw-dropping feats throughout his career, from intricate martial arts sequences to death-defying jumps. His dedication has set a benchmark for action choreography in Indian cinema.
Similarly, Tom Cruise is synonymous with groundbreaking, often terrifying, real-life stunts in the *Mission: Impossible* franchise and beyond. From scaling the Burj Khalifa to piloting fighter jets and performing HALO jumps, Cruise’s commitment to authenticity has captivated audiences worldwide, redefining what’s possible in an action film. Their shared philosophy of bringing raw, visceral realism to the screen is what Priyanka evidently admires.
The “Magic of the Movies”: Behind Priyanka’s On-Screen Action
While admiring her peers’ daring exploits, Priyanka Chopra Jonas also provided a pragmatic and humble insight into her own action sequences. She emphasized the collaborative nature of filmmaking, particularly in large-scale productions. “But, I do love being a part of big mega movies. We do stand on the shoulders of so many people – there’s a massive stunt team that made me do all the things that I did,” she explained.
She peeled back the curtain on the technical elements that create the illusion of danger. “There are wires, mats and lots of it. So, it is the magic of the movies.” This highlights her appreciation for the extensive crew and sophisticated techniques that allow actors to perform seemingly impossible acts safely, underscoring the difference between an actor’s personal courage and the meticulously orchestrated illusion of cinema.
Starring in *Heads of State*: A High-Stakes Thriller
Priyanka’s latest venture, *Heads of State*, positions her squarely in the action genre. The American action-comedy film, directed by Ilya Naishuller, premiered globally on Amazon Prime Video from July 2. In the movie, Priyanka takes on the role of Noel Bisset, a skilled MI6 agent embroiled in a global conspiracy.
She shares the screen with an impressive ensemble cast, including Idris Elba, John Cena, Jack Quaid, Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, and Carla Gugino. The narrative follows an unlikely trio — a U.S. President, a rogue agent, and a resourceful MI6 operative — as they race against time to prevent a devastating attack.
Navigating the Streaming Blockbuster Landscape
*Heads of State*, like many contemporary streaming blockbusters, has entered the critical arena. While the film offers thrilling sequences, some critics have pointed to the visual and conceptual approach often seen in large-budget streaming productions. A review from SCREEN noted, “Heads of State has the unmistakable sheen of a streaming project shot entirely against green screens. It feels too curated, both visually and conceptually.”
This perspective touches upon a broader conversation about the evolution of filmmaking in the streaming era, where the convenience of home viewing meets the ambition of Hollywood-level spectacle. Regardless of critical reception, Priyanka Chopra Jonas continues to command the screen, proving her versatility across diverse roles and genres, all while maintaining a refreshingly honest take on the craft of action cinema.
