Highway to the 80’s zone
Confession: I had only ever seen this once. I know I owned the DVD but I don’t recall if I watched it on tv and then bought it, or bought and watched it because I was ashamed I hadn’t seen it. I don’t even remember how old I was. Early pre-teens to early teens maybe? Anyways, I had seen it. Always liked it. Understood why so many loved it but it was never fully the hype for me. I think that’s because I was too young to appreciate it. Well, thankfully, that has changed.
First off, it’s just insane how they made this. The aerial footage is unbelievable and elevates the film with a sense of realism rarely found. And the actors actually in the cockpits? Even MORE insane. They are breathtaking, high stakes stunts and scenes with so much tension you can’t help but be GLUED to the screen.
The story is also really well written. Maverick has a lot to prove because of his late father and the murky details he has about him. His arc is somewhat reminiscent of the classical hero’s journey and by film’s end, you’ll smile at the fulfillment of it coming full circle. There is genuine emotion, romance, comedy and awe-inducing action to be had throughout. That particular death is a gut punch out of nowhere that informs the third act in a way that transforms the message, and the characters completely. Also, I freaking love Val Kilmer. The ICEMAN!
My sole complaint is the weirdly over the top sex scene that’s just too much. It didn’t need it at all and I just don’t like these kinds of scenes being glorified. My only other observation is a lot of scenes are dark. Could be my blu-ray transfer or my folks tv since I was watching with them but there’s just a lot of seemingly poorly lit scenes. It’s weird but I won’t fault the film for it.
I am pumped for Maverick this week. Tom Cruise proved then, and continues to showcase now – that’s sincerely one of the last true, classic movie stars. This film is absolutely deserving of the “Star Wars on Earth” mission they boldly touted going for. It’s a bonafide American classic. No matter how 80’s it is, or how overused songs are – when the Top Gun Anthem crescendos – so will your heart.
5 out of 5 stars
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