Why does everything need a sequel? That movie was great all on its own, one of the few standalone sci fi movies made in recent years. Why do we need another? Is advertising a new movie that expensive that the marketing team needs to ride some else's coattails to get results?
I thought it had been largely agreed upon that Mr. scientology middle-tooth jump-on-Oprah's-couch serial-abusive-husband ruins everything he touches. I've actively avoided movies he had any involvement with for like two decades now, so I don't have any knowledge of more recent work.... Legend (1985) was pretty good, but Ridley Scot, Tim Curry and Mia Sara carried that film.
Even his "smaller" projects were good - Jack Reacher, American Made, heck Oblivion was decent despite getting mixed reviews and not a huge moneymaker by Cruise standards.
The way in which and how heavily they were marketed turned me off of every one of them before they hit screens. Honestly, I've never seen a fast and furious film for the same reason. The harder someone tries to sell something, the more I have to wonder why the product can't stand on its own.
Its the fact that he makes really excellent movies is the only reason I watch them despite me being very against Scientology. Edge of Tomorrow is one of the best scifi movies of recent times.