Tom Cruise and Sean Penn Shine in ‘Taps’ Gripping Military Drama

When ‘Taps’ premiered on 18th December 1981, audiences had little inkling they were witnessing the rise of two future Hollywood stars. The military-themed drama featured established actors George C. Scott and Timothy Hutton, the latter fresh off an Academy Award win for Best Supporting Actor in ‘Ordinary People.’ However, the film also included Tom Cruise and Sean Penn, who were just starting their careers. Cruise, in his second film role, and Penn, making his debut, played supporting characters. Their performances caught the attention of Hollywood insiders, setting the stage for their illustrious careers.

Based on Devery Freeman’s 1979 novel ‘Father Sky,’ ‘Taps’ tells the story of rebellious cadets at Bunker Hill Military Academy. Facing the closure of their school and its sale to real estate developers, the cadets, led by Major Brian Moreland (Hutton), Captain David Shawn (Cruise), and Captain Alex Dwyer (Penn), stage a mutiny. The situation escalates as police and the National Guard become involved, leading to a tragic showdown.

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For Tom Cruise, ‘Taps’ was a formative experience. At 19, he landed the role of David Shawn after moving to New York and auditioning extensively. Excited by the opportunity, Cruise immersed himself in the filmmaking process, learning about both the creative and technical aspects. He credited director Harold Becker for nurturing his passion and allowing him to watch daily rushes, gaining insights into film editing. This early exposure to the intricacies of filmmaking helped establish the strong work ethic and curiosity that would define Cruise’s career as an actor and producer.

Cruise’s portrayal of the intense and fanatical David Shawn showcased his ability to deliver a powerful performance, even in a limited role. His character’s fervour and dedication culminate in impulsive actions with tragic consequences, highlighting Cruise’s potential and hinting at his future success. Despite being just 19, his performance in ‘Taps’ left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.

Sean Penn’s role as Alex Dwyer was equally significant. In his first major film, Penn delivered an emotionally charged performance, balancing restraint and intensity. This role was a precursor to Penn’s later reputation as a powerhouse actor known for his dramatic flair.

Following ‘Taps’ both Cruise and Penn quickly rose to fame. Cruise’s roles in ‘The Outsiders’ and ‘Risky Business’ in 1983, followed by ‘Top Gun’ and ‘The Color of Money’ in 1986, cemented his star status. Penn, meanwhile, became a household name with his performance in ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High.’ ‘Taps’ marked the beginning of their ascent, moving them from relative obscurity to the forefront of Hollywood.

–Farheen Ali