Classic Review: Top Gun (1986)

Often we see some films being described as “such a dad film”, “for the dads”, “dads will eat this up”, and so on. These constitute the ‘Dad Cinema’ subgenre, catering to said demographic. Tony Scott’s Top Gun is a textbook example of the genre. It features the military, fighter jets, stunts, bromance, friendships, and team spirit – themes appealing to male adults. That is not to say that the film limits itself to this demographic. The film has a dash of emotion and romance. The romance is not significant to the story, but there is emotion at the heart of this actioner. Still, the awe factor of the film does not lie in the story; it lies in its lead actor. Tom Cruise is the MVP. His on-screen persona instantly makes LT Pete “Maverick” Mitchell a larger-than-life character which adds to the heroic charm. Of course, the stunts and action sequences are an excellent staple of the film. Also, the special effects are commendable for that period.

Top Gun is also as American as a film can get. The best pilots assemble to become even better by competing with each other – that’s the American way to go. Maverick is skilled, ambitious, competitive, and ready to take risks, skills very much valued for succeeding in the States. Not to mention, his dashing charisma helps him win hearts. Apart from the protagonist, Scott sets up the film to be a celebration of America’s military prowess. There is celebratory music playing even when the fights have not been won yet. These bring out the more implicit themes of patriotism and the display of military strength. Given that the film came out in 1986, it is possible to connect such military themes with the Ronald Reagan era of politics, whose administration aggressively jacked up the American military’s might.

While the film keeps viewers interested with the adrenaline rush and drama, it plays it all safe and by the playbook. From the narrative perspective, it is conventional and straightforward. There are all the standard story beats, and it rarely gets unpredictable. The best part of the narrative is the way the friendship of Maverick and his RIO, Goose (Anthony Edwards), is sketched out. This relationship also plays a critical role in the character development of Maverick. They are sure to tether themselves to this relationship as the film’s events unfold.

It’s been a little over 36 years since Top Gun hit the screens. That’s a long time, so it is also essential to see if this film has stood the test of time. There are no female pilots in the competition. A handful of women appear on screen, and even those with a substantial role are just ancillary characters with little direct participation or consequences. Charlie (McGillis) could have played a more active role in the story, but the character’s potential remains untapped. Such lapses would lead to significant discourse in modern times, but let’s not forget that films are a product of their time. This was made in 1986, not 2016.

Top Gun’s appeal is clear and distinctive. It is no wonder that the film earned big bucks at the box office. Notwithstanding the flaws, Scott has a clear vision of what he wants the film to be and what needs to be done to get there.

still courtesy of Paramount Pictures

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