While the Mission: Impossible franchise has provided solid, computer-generated entertainment through three films, there is little doubt the franchise is becoming as stale as its plots are convoluted, and that any future MI offering will suffer under the weight of its star's plummeting popularity.

Nevertheless, there seems to be an MI4 in the works, and our buddies at FilmDrunk report that Tom Cruise has asked MI3 director J.J. Abrams to stay aboard as a producer.

Hot off the success of "Star Trek," Abrams has now compiled a uniquely impressive résumé of buzz-worthy hits on screens both big and small. But where in his bag of tricks should Abrams reach to update the adventures of Ethan Hunt and company?