Something has been amiss (other than the usual) lately, and it seems that I’ve been suffering from a distinct lack of Tom Cruise fakery. Now, I feel the relief pouring forth because, for the next week and a half, the Cruise will be doing the publicity rounds for Knight and Day. Oh, how I’ve missed the unhinged, lift-wearing midget.

These photos were taken at a recent Lakers game with wifebot Katie Holmes in attendance and Tom’s recently-refurbished personality switch stuck in the “on” position. Apparently, Chris Brown is a huge fan of the Cruise and swiftly maneuvers from a mere handshake to a friendly embrace. Clearly, the Cruise doesn’t know who the hell this guy is, but he maintains his composure and gives the dude a brotherly hug to demonstrate his non-homophobic tendencies.

Of these two macho men, one of them could stand to depart from the Kris Kross pant-wearing method. The other one, however, won’t be giving up those lifts any time soon, but his minders have undoubtedly warned the Cruise to never again hug this woman beater. Gotta watch that image, you know.

Imagery: Wireimage