Abrams & Cruise Officially Developing Mission: Impossible IV

When Tom Cruise first starting talking up plans for a fourth Mission: Impossible installment, I couldn't help but think, "Whatever, pal!" Then something funny happened a few weeks later, J.J. Abrams came outta nowhere and revealed his involvement. It was from then that I actually took notice of the project - probably along with most people.

And now Variety has confirmed that Mission: Impossible IV is in fact in development with Abrams and Cruise producing and a Summer 2011 release date being targeted. Now mind you, no screenwriters have been brought on-board at the moment. Nor has Abrams committed himself to directing duties. Hell, it's still a question-mark as to whether or not he'll direct the Star Trek sequel - which he will produce at the very least.

It's also a bit of a "foggy area" regarding Cruise appearing as I.M.F. agent Ethan Hunt again. His on-screen participation wasn't specifically noted. But then, maybe it's "No shit, Sherlock" logic and it's a foregone conclusion that he'll show up in some capacity.

Of course, there were those rumblings of Brad Pitt and even Brandon "Superman" Routh possibly taking over the franchise from quiet awhile back. So it's altogether possible there was some truth to those crazy rumors.