Paramount will launch Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning in over 3,700 cinemas across the United States on 23 May, with the Tom Cruise-led blockbuster also securing a theatrical release in China one week later, on 30 May.
The eighth instalment in the high-octane spy franchise marks a major global rollout for Paramount, as the studio aims to reignite international momentum for Mission: Impossible, which has already grossed more than $4 billion worldwide.
China’s approval of the film, confirmed by sources familiar with the matter, comes amid broader signs of Hollywood regaining access to the world’s second-largest film market.
Cruise’s return as IMF agent Ethan Hunt follows recent approvals for Disney’s Lilo & Stitch remake and Universal’s How to Train Your Dragon.
He also attended the world premiere in London’s Leicester Square on 15 May, further ramping up global buzz.
The franchise's last entry, Dead Reckoning, earned $48.8 million in China in 2023—about 8.5% of its global box office.
Despite a shift toward domestic Chinese blockbusters, Hollywood productions still represent significant revenue potential in the region.
The May 23 US release will see The Final Reckoning open in roughly 3,700 locations, making it one of the summer’s widest domestic releases.
Tensions between the US and China over trade policy had cast doubt on the number of American films entering Chinese cinemas in 2025, after Beijing signalled it would “moderately reduce” imports.
The inclusion of Mission: Impossible on China’s release calendar suggests commercial interests may be taking priority.
As Ethan Hunt races against time once again, Paramount is betting on both the US and Chinese markets to drive the latest Mission: Impossible instalment toward another global box office win.
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