From: isds11990012@memstvx1.memst.edu
Newsgroups: alt.religion.scientology
Subject: Re: Tom Cruise: A Promotional Vehicle?
Date: 14 Dec 92 05:28:13 GMT
Distribution: usa
Organization: Memphis State University

In article <Bz282A.1L1@ucunix.san.uc.edu>, parikhma@ucunix.san.uc.edu (youdunno) writes:
> HI!
> 
> I have been following this newsgroup regularly. It's hard not to get
> biased after reading so many articles, most revealing the dark side,
> while few (written by 1/2 witted guys)... supporting it.
> 
> Now, here's my question:
> 
> Is Tom Cruise paid by Scientology?

   My guess is that he isn't paid by the church because the church
doesn't pay for celebrity endorsements.  If he endorses LRH technology
then its his business and the church appreciates/encourages it, but
I'm pretty sure he isn't paid.

   Also, Tom Cruise is in town here in Memphis Tennesse right now
shooting his new movie "The Firm".  To my knowledge, he hasn't done
any promotion of Dianetics/Scientology since he's been here though he
has been active in many local charity activitys.

> 
> I need to clarify some points, before I am attacked by any Scientology
> supporters. 
>

   No need to fear being attacked, so long as you do no attacking
yourself  :-)
 
> 1. Tom Cruise been a good actor and has delivered consistent 
>    performances much before he even joined Scientology.
>
   I guess so.  But I really don't know when he joined Scn.  Do you?
 
> 2. His past career successes preceded his association with Scientology.
>
   I guess we'd have to know when he joined to establish that accurately.
Do you have a date?  I can always call a friend of mine at Celebrity
Centre International (his organization) and try to find out, but she
might not be allowed to tell.
 
> 3. He hasn't had any career success to claim following his association
>    with Scientology.
>

   What?  What about "A Few Good Men"?  Also, some other film that I can't
remember the name of that also featured his wife.  Also, "The Firm" which
is shooting right now.
 
> 4. His interviews include more and more details about his personal
>    triumphs including his overcoming dyslexia, following Scientology.
>

   Is that so?  What interviews?  The only one's I've read didn't mention
Scientology or Dianetics but one did mention LRH Study Technology.  I
personally wish he would talk more about Scn in his interviews.  If you
know of any interviews where he mentions Scientology, I'd love to hear
about it.
    
> 5. I am in awe of any glitzy movie-celebrities. But, I do think that 
>    their hold is important enough to influence many people who follow
>    their movie-idol's lifestyles to be able to reflect their success
>    in personal life.
> 
> 6. Being in good books of journalist does not equal being a successful
>    movie star. (He is paid handsomely, but then again, so are so many
>    singer with music-contracts, who have failed to repeat their
>    success).   
>

   True.  I think he's pretty successful though.  After all, he pretty
much does what he wants.
 
> 7. It is unusual to find the mention of any religious leanings in an
>    interview, with a movie-star. (Imagine, Kevin Costner saying "I 
>    owe my performance in Dances with Wolves, to The First Baptist
>    Church in Idaho. They helped me overcome the fear of taking my
>    pants off")
>

   Its not really that unusual.  Other celebritys have done things like
that from time to time.  Vanity (a pop artist) was on the Joan Rivers
show not long ago discussing her experience of finding Christ.  Shirley
McClain is another example.  Also the Beatles, and Jon Anderson of YES
and his affiliation with Subud.
    
> well. If you answer this, and you happen to be a Scientologist, pls.
> don't use Scientology jargon. I don't understand any of it.
> 
> Thanks.
>

Your welcome.
 
> -Mehul


John