Director Iñárritu acknowledges mixed reception for Tom Cruise's new film "Digger" after poor opening

"Digger," the satirical comedy directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and starring Tom Cruise as an eccentric oil tycoon, opened to a weak domestic box-office, earning about $8 million in its first weekend. Critics gave the film a 51% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and some reviewers described it harshly, with one calling it a “laugh-free turd.”

Iñárritu told the New York Times the film is “uncommon” and “provoking,” adding that he prefers polarizing reactions that spark conversation. > “That’s the role of a film for me — let’s start the conversation,” he said. He acknowledged that audiences seeking more conventional storytelling are also valid, noting the film was never meant to be “like an ice cream.”

Despite the criticism, Cruise posted on Instagram that he is proud of the project and grateful to work with the cast and crew. > “‘DIGGER’ is officially in theaters and I am so honored to have had the opportunity to create this film alongside such talented artists,” he wrote.

The film’s $135 million budget and modest opening mark Cruise’s lowest U.S. debut since 2007, and industry sources suggest the negative response may affect his awards prospects.