Starring: Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, Val Kilmer, Anthony Edwards, Tom Skerritt
Release dates: May 16, 1986 (United States)
Running time: 110 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
Budget: $15 million
Box office: $357.3 million
IMDb Rating: 6.9/10 (468K)
Top Gun is a 1986 American action drama film directed by Tony Scott and starring Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, and Val Kilmer. The movie follows the story of Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, a hotshot pilot who is selected to attend the elite United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, also known as "Top Gun," where he competes to be the best pilot in his class.
This classic movie offers thrilling action sequences and heartwarming moments that make it a must-watch for any film enthusiast. Tom Cruise delivers a charismatic performance as the daring and ambitious Maverick, while Kelly McGillis adds depth to the movie as his love interest and instructor, Charlie.
The film's cinematography is another standout element. The aerial shots are breathtaking, and the dogfight scenes are intense and well-executed. The movie's iconic soundtrack, featuring the hit song "Take My Breath Away," further adds to the film's overall appeal.
From a narrative perspective, "Top Gun" follows a traditional three-act structure that adheres to Syd Field's storytelling principles. The first act establishes Maverick's character and his motivation to attend Top Gun. The second act focuses on his training and relationships with other characters, while the third act features the climactic dogfight sequence and resolution of the story.
One of the film's strengths is its use of subtext, particularly in its exploration of the theme of the competition. Robert McKee would argue that subtext is essential to any great story, and "Top Gun" does an excellent job of using the characters' actions and dialogue to convey their inner thoughts and emotions.
Visit: Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
However, some critics have criticized the film for its portrayal of women, which Marcel Martin might attribute to the film's adherence to traditional gender roles. McGillis's character, for example, is primarily defined by her relationship with Maverick, and her role as an instructor is secondary to her function as a love interest.
Overall, "Top Gun" is a well-crafted film that has stood the test of time. It offers a thrilling story, memorable characters, and stunning visuals, making it a classic of the action genre.
