Making "The Impossible" was not an easy experience for any of the actors involved -- the film tells the story of one family's struggle to survive and reunite after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami -- but for co-star Tom Holland, it took a physical toll as well.

One scene in the film had him jumping into a pool just ahead of a wave of water, something he had to do "about four or five times," he recalled on TODAY Monday. "The first time I did it, I belly flopped ... (I got) a lot of cuts and bruises. I got a few scars to show for it!"

The 16-year-old was just 13 when he filmed the movie, and has been enjoying the positive critical reaction he's received. "It already has completely changed my life," he said. "I'm flying to Los Angeles like every two weeks to meet some of the most amazing people in the world."

And, he's anticipating one more consequence to film success: Getting recognized on the street.

"That possibly will happen in the next couple of months," he grinned. "I guess I'll just be polite."

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