I know Top Gun is considered an older film, but hear me out, for film lovers my age, I have to say this is an inspiring and truly great film to watch. Going into the film, within the first five minutes the movie kick starts with a great classic rock song, “Danger Zone,” performed by Kenny Loggins. Between the air deck crew and jets taking off, why wouldn’t that be an incredible start to a film?
Top Gun, though yes, still a Hollywood movie, takes the audience to a much more semi-realistic place in the Navy and what top gun pilots went through. Even between tension and relationships throughout the movie, this film came off as more of a love story and form of self-discovery. Which I think the director Tony Scott mastered beautifully. Watching Tom Cruise (Misson Impossible.) perform in the manner he did let’s the audience relish in his personal struggles, glory, and valor. From what I have heard, this film even made people want to be pilots, which honestly I’d have to say is true. (At least for me.)
As for the film, though it can drag on in some parts, I can understand why the director chose the route he did for storytelling purposes. We are so used to explosions and violence at the very start of a modern film, so we have to take more consideration for the time it was made and the director’s approach to telling a story. This movie isn’t a story built on special effects and fantastic dog fight scenes (Which this movie does have.) but more about Maveric and his relationship with his friend and right-hand man in the jet, Goose—played by Anthony Edwards (ER.) as well as Charlotte “Charlie” played by Kelly McGillis (An Uncommon Grace.). However, it will still grab your attention the entire time by perfectly mixing relationships, comedy, and having the freedom of flying in the air.
Before watching the second Top Gun film, I strongly recommend that those interested watch the first one beforehand. That way, your mind is sharp on the story, and you, as the audience, won’t be confused in the newer film.
Overall I understand why this film has no time limit on its relevance, and it will continue to tell its story for generations to come. It has inspired many and will continue to inspire those who have the Warriors call inside of them or for those who enjoy a great story with aircraft battle scenes in it. Either way, it won’t let you down if you give this movie an honest chance.
