Tom Cruise, rewarded with an honorary Oscar for his entire career. “Acting is not just a job, it's who I am”
Tom Cruise received an honorary Oscar at the Governors Awards on Sunday, where he gave an emotional speech about his passion for cinema. The award was presented to him by director Alejandro G. Iñárritu, with whom he is working on an upcoming film whose release is scheduled for next year.
“Acting is not just a job, it's who I am. It takes me around the world, helps me appreciate differences and respect the humanity we share.” Cruise stated. “Making movies is not what I do, it's who I am.”
The actor, nominated four times for the Oscar – for “Born on the Fourth of July,” “Jerry Maguire,” “Magnolia” and “Top Gun: Maverick” – he told that his passion for cinematography began as a child, in a dark cinema hall, where “a beam of light seemed to explode across the screen.”
The honorary award was also given to choreographer Debbie Allen and set designer Wynn Thomas. Also at the event, Dolly Parton received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her charitable work, thanking the audience in a video message.
Janet Yang, president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, emphasized Cruise's commitment to the filmmaking community, the theatrical experience and the stunt community, describing him as someone whose career continues to have a lasting impact.
