

While definitely worth a watch for the origin story used to set up the sequel, Top Gun stands solidly on its own merit. High-stakes flying sequences with devastating consequences? Check and check. Complicated romantic and coworking relationships? Check.

After being ordered to attend Top Gun, the Naval Fighter Weapons School, Maverick finds himself pursuing an instructor (played by Kelly McGillis) and battling "Iceman" ( Val Kilmer), a rival student.įeaturing the shirtless volleyball scene that launched a thousand sexual awakenings, Top Gun is an engine blazing good time.

Tom Cruise stars as Pete Mitchell (known to his intimates by his call sign "Maverick"), a United States aviator lieutenant serving in the Air Force alongside his best friend Nick "Goose" Bradshaw (Anthony Edwards). Before there was Top Gun: Maverick, there was Top Gun: The Original Action Aviation Flick.
