Hollywood's latest buzzworthy project, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's Judy, has hit a temporary snag. John Goodman, the beloved character actor, injured his hip during filming, forcing production to pause. But don't fret—this setback isn't expected to delay the film's October 2026 release. With Tom Cruise leading an ensemble cast that includes Sandra Hüller, Riz Ahmed, and Jesse Plemons, Judy is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of the decade.
The injury, while unfortunate, doesn't appear to be severe. Goodman, who turned 72 last summer, is expected to make a full recovery. The production team is optimistic about resuming filming later this month, ensuring the ambitious project stays on track.
Judy marks Inarritu's first directorial effort since his 2015 masterpiece The Revenant. Known for his visually stunning and emotionally charged storytelling, Inarritu has co-written the script with Birdman collaborators Nicolas Giacobone and Alexander Dinelaris, alongside Sabina Berman. The film's plot remains shrouded in mystery, but early hints suggest it centers on “the most powerful man in the world, who embarks on a frantic mission to prove he is humanity's savior before the disaster he's unleashed destroys everything.”
For Tom Cruise, Judy represents a significant milestone—it's his first project since signing with Warner Bros. Discovery in January. Fans of the action star will recall his last collaboration with the studio, 2014's Edge of Tomorrow, which has since gained a cult following. Cruise's involvement in Judy signals a potential shift in his career, as he steps into a role that seems more introspective and layered than his recent Mission: Impossible outings.
As for Goodman, this film marks a welcome return to the big screen. Despite his prolific voice acting in animated films, Goodman has only starred in one live-action project (Captive State) since 2018. His filmography, peppered with iconic roles in The Big Lebowski, 10 Cloverfield Lane, and Inside Llewyn Davis, cements his status as one of cinema's finest character actors. His presence in Judy is sure to add depth and gravitas to Inarritu's vision.
While the pause in production is a minor hiccup, it's a reminder of the physical demands of filmmaking, especially for a veteran like Goodman. The anticipation for Judy remains sky-high, with Inarritu's track record and the star-studded cast promising a cinematic experience that's both visually breathtaking and emotionally resonant.
Inarritu's Judy is more than just a film—it's an event. With a plot that teases existential stakes and a cast that reads like a who's who of Hollywood, it's poised to be a defining moment in modern cinema. Goodman's injury, while unfortunate, is a testament to the dedication of the cast and crew. As we await its 2026 release, one can't help but wonder: Will Judy live up to the hype, or will it buckle under the weight of its own ambition? Only time will tell, but if Inarritu's past work is any indication, we're in for a masterpiece.
Engage Readers with a Question:
Do you think Judy will be a career-defining film for Tom Cruise, or will it be overshadowed by Inarritu's directorial genius? Let us know your thoughts!
