Tom Cruise 2002 Oscars speech
by Capucine · old hollywood: Tom Cruise
When the 2002 Oscars opened just months after 9/11, Tom Cruise addressed a friend's doubt about celebrating during such disruption. He argued that movies bridge divides and melt prejudice through small scenes or gestures. Documentary filmmaker Errol Morris crisscrossed America asking people what films mean to them. Cruise invited everyone to consider that question as part of the evening's theme, noting that even a glance can bring us all together. "Movies are important because they bring us together."
Transcript (en)
And then last September came an event that would change us. An actor friend said to me, what are we doing? What are we doing? Is it important? Is it even important what I do? And what of a night like tonight? Should we celebrate the joy and magic that movies bring? Well, dare I say it, more than ever. A small scene, a gesture, even a glance between characters can cross lines, break through barriers, melt prejudice, just plain make us laugh. brings us all together. That little bit of magic. That's just me. Tonight we are going to listen to you. Documentary filmmaker Errol Morris crisscrossed America asking moviegoers and culture makers a question. What do movies mean to you? And you answer. So let's expand this beautiful stage into every one of your homes and maybe even some of you will answer this question as you stand on this stage tonight. What do movies mean to you? So pull up a sofa. It's just us talking. It's Oscar night.
