Digger's polarizing premiere signals a risky awards gamble for Cruise

Tom Cruise’s satirical drama 'Digger' has generated sharply divided critical reactions following its world premiere. While some praise the film's bold aesthetic and Cruise’s performance, many critics call it a 'mess' or 'unpleasant.' The film, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, is set to release on October 2, 2026, but faces significant box office doubts due to its polarizing reception.
Key points
- The film 'Digger' premiered in London on September 22, 2026, with mixed critical reactions.
- Critics are divided on the film's quality, with some calling it a 'masterpiece' and others a 'mess.'
- The film is set to release in theaters on October 2, 2026.
- The film has a budget of $125 million and is expected to be a strong awards contender, particularly for Cruise’s performance and the film’s production design.
- The film's polarizing reception may impact its box office performance and awards campaign.
Background
Tom Cruise has been in the news recently for his involvement in the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger and his new film 'Digger.' The film is a satirical drama directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu, and it has been generating significant buzz due to its polarizing reception. The film is set to release on October 2, 2026, and is expected to be a strong awards contender.
How outlets are covering it
Critics are sharply divided on 'Digger.' Some, like Jim Hemphill of IndieWire, call it a 'masterpiece' and praise Cruise's performance. Others, like Joey Magidson of Awards Radar, call it a 'mess' and 'unpleasant.' The film's polarizing reception may impact its box office performance and awards campaign. The film's budget of $125 million and its polarizing reception may make it a risky gamble for Warner Bros. and Legendary.
Why it matters
The polarizing reception of 'Digger' may impact its box office performance and awards campaign. The film's budget of $125 million and its polarizing reception may make it a risky gamble for Warner Bros. and Legendary. The film's release on October 2, 2026, is a key date for the film's success.
What to watch
The film 'Digger' is set to release in theaters on October 2, 2026. The film's box office performance and awards campaign will be closely watched. The film's polarizing reception may impact its success.
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- ‘Digger’: Tom Cruise’s “Brave Gorgeous Misfire” Gets Very Mixed First Reactions The Hollywood Reporter
- Digger first-look reaction – Tom Cruise’s wild new film is as polarising as they come The Independent
- Tom Cruise talks new film 'Digger,' career in Hollywood and more goodmorningamerica.com
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