Image Source: Variety
Digger is already shaping up to be one of the most divisive films of the year. Early reactions to Tom Cruise’s latest starring vehicle arrived after a press screening on Sept. 22, with critics describing Alejandro González Iñárritu’s satirical black comedy as everything from “baffling” and “unpleasant” to “brave” and “fascinating.”
The sharp split suggests that audiences may have dramatically different responses when the movie reaches theaters. Although many journalists praised its ambition, visual style and performances, others questioned its storytelling, humor and unusual tonal shifts. As Variety reported, the consensus appears to be that Digger is unlike the film many viewers are expecting.
Digger First Reactions Reveal a Wide Critical Divide
Matt Neglia of Next Best Picture called the movie one of Cruise’s most dynamic and interesting roles in years. He praised the actor’s commanding presence but argued that the film’s elaborate theatrics sometimes overshadow its emotional depth.
Variety awards pundit Clayton Davis also acknowledged the risks taken by Iñárritu. Davis highlighted Cruise and John Goodman’s work, along with the production design and cinematography, but said that not every element connects successfully. His conclusion was blunt: “The divide on this one is going to be wide.”
Several critics were considerably harsher. Awards Radar’s Joey Magidson described Digger as “a mess” and said that “not a whole lot works here.” Edward Douglas similarly questioned the film’s overall quality and predicted a potentially “horrendous” CinemaScore once general audiences begin seeing it.
Journalist Mike Ryan called the movie “generally unpleasant,” while Kristen Lopez described it as a mixed bag with an interesting concept that does not always trust viewers to interpret its ideas independently.
A Bold, Surreal Turn for Tom Cruise
The more enthusiastic reactions focused on the film’s originality and Cruise’s dramatic transformation. IndieWire’s Jim Hemphill called Digger one of the most visually inventive and conceptually audacious studio films in years, while Anne Thompson praised it as a “brave and gorgeous art film.”
Thompson suggested that the movie may struggle with mainstream audiences but could find stronger support among Academy voters, particularly in craft and acting categories. Other critics also singled out Cruise’s performance, with some placing it among his career-best work.
The response is especially notable because Digger marks Cruise’s return to a more adult-oriented drama after years dominated by action blockbusters. During the past decade, his only major non-action film was the 2017 crime comedy American Made. His earlier dramatic and comedy roles included Lions for Lambs, Tropic Thunder, Rock of Ages and Valkyrie.
The Story, Cast and Striking Transformation
Cruise plays Digger Rockwell, a wealthy tycoon forced to respond when one of his oil rigs malfunctions and triggers an environmental catastrophe across the planet. The story reportedly combines political satire, surreal comedy and darker commentary about wealth, influence and public messaging.
The supporting cast includes Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, Sandra Hüller, Michael Stuhlbarg and Jesse Plemons. Ahmed has already earned strong notices from several critics, while Goodman was praised by Davis for delivering standout work.
Cruise’s physical transformation has also fueled interest. Heavy makeup and prosthetics initially took approximately six hours to apply. However, Cruise worked with the makeup team to reduce the process to about one hour. Speaking on the “New Heights” podcast, the actor said he used timed rehearsals and repeated practice to make the demanding routine faster.
Will Digger Become an Awards Contender?
The film’s divided reception could complicate its awards-season campaign. Cruise’s return to serious drama had generated early Oscar speculation, but the polarized response may make the movie a challenging sell with some voters.
At the same time, praise for the acting, cinematography, production design and Iñárritu’s direction could keep Digger in the conversation. Its unconventional structure and ambitious themes may appeal to voters who favor daring filmmaking, even if the movie proves difficult for broad audiences.
Digger opens in theaters Oct. 1 through Warner Bros. Until then, the strongest warning from critics may be the simplest: avoid spoilers and expect the unexpected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Digger about?
Digger follows Digger Rockwell, a wealthy oil tycoon who faces a global environmental catastrophe after one of his rigs malfunctions.
Who directed Digger?
The film was directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind Birdman and The Revenant.
Who stars in Digger?
Tom Cruise leads the cast, which also includes Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, Sandra Hüller, Michael Stuhlbarg and Jesse Plemons.
When does Digger open in theaters?
Digger is scheduled to open in theaters on Oct. 1 from Warner Bros.
