Tom Cruise has revealed the demanding process behind his dramatic transformation for the upcoming film Digger.
The actor plays Digger Rockwell, a wealthy oil tycoon who looks very different from Cruise himself. The role required a fat suit, gray hair and extensive facial prosthetics.
However, the makeup process initially created a major problem.
It took around six hours to complete each day.
Tom Cruise Digger Transformation Took Six Hours
Cruise discussed the experience during an appearance on the New Heights podcast with Travis and Jason Kelce.
He explained that the six-hour makeup routine did not fit comfortably into his filming schedule.
Cruise said he needed enough time to sleep while also working 12-hour filming days. Therefore, spending six hours in makeup every day left very little time for anything else.
Instead of accepting the situation, Cruise decided to find a faster solution.
Cruise Uses a Stopwatch to Speed Up Makeup
The actor brought a chalkboard to the makeup process and began tracking the time required for each prosthetic.
He also had someone use a stopwatch while the makeup team applied each piece.
At first, the team did not believe they could reduce the process significantly.
Cruise, however, encouraged them to keep practicing and improving each step.
The team eventually developed a much faster routine.
As a result, they reduced the makeup and prosthetic process from six hours to less than one hour.
Wearing the Prosthetics Was Still Difficult
Although Cruise solved the timing problem, the transformation remained physically demanding.
The actor said the extra weight affected his knees and body, particularly while wearing cowboy boots and the fat suit.
He also struggled with heat during long scenes.
Because the prosthetics covered much of his body, Cruise said he would sweat heavily while filming.
To deal with the problem, he came up with cooling equipment that could help him between takes.
The film also includes long takes that required Cruise to maintain the character’s physical rhythm and performance without breaking concentration.
Why Cruise Wanted the Challenge
Cruise has spent years working on major action franchises, but Digger gives him a very different type of role.
The film is directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, whose work attracted Cruise because of its distinctive style and creative approach.
Cruise said he has worked with Iñárritu on the project for several years and wanted the opportunity to challenge himself in a new way.
The actor also praised the experience of collaborating with different directors.
Cruise Has No Immediate Plans to Direct
Cruise also explained why he does not necessarily want to become a director himself.
For him, working with different filmmakers provides an opportunity to learn from their creative viewpoints.
He said directing would change that experience because he enjoys seeing how other directors approach stories, performances and filmmaking.
Instead, Cruise wants to continue acting while learning from the filmmakers around him.
Digger Arrives in October
Digger is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on October 2, 2026.
The film also stars Riz Ahmed, John Goodman and Sandra Hüller, with Iñárritu directing.
Cruise’s performance has already attracted attention because of the unusual appearance and demanding physical preparation.
The Tom Cruise Digger transformation shows just how much preparation went into creating Digger Rockwell.
More importantly, Cruise’s decision to redesign the makeup routine demonstrates the practical challenge of spending hours each day in prosthetics while filming long scenes.
For audiences, the result will be visible on screen when Digger reaches theaters this October.
