If you were to ask people over a certain age what the most iconic film soundtrack from the 80’s is, most would say ‘Top Gun’. With iconic songs such as ‘Danger Zone’ (performed by ‘Footloose’s’ Kenny Loggins) and ‘Take My Breath Away’ (performed by Berlin) it is arguably the most iconic film soundtrack from the 80’s.
Upon its release ‘Top Gun’ was immediately given the status of “One of the greatest action films of all time”. Despite that, I admit that I’ve seen better action films but I enjoyed ‘Top Gun for what it was; an adrenalin-fuelled action film that was boosted by its soundtrack.
The story starts off with various visual shots of various aircraft taking off during the opening sequence (‘Danger Zone’). It is here that we first meet Lieutenant Peter “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) and his Radar Intercept Officer and friend Nicholas “Goose” Bradshaw as they try to intercept a aircraft that has gone into their territory.
They succeed in doing so (whilst Maverick gives the enemy pilot “the bird” and takes a photograph whilst flying upside down as he does so). However the incident is far from over; Bill "Cougar" Cortell is running low on fuel and is struggling trying to land.
Trying to comfort his fellow pilot as best he can Maverick helps Cougar try to land his jet. He succeeds but barely. The incident has left Couger very shaken up though; he turns in his wings.
Tom "Stinger" Jordan (James Tolkan)- the Captain of the Enterprise- ends up having to change his mind about disciplining Maverick for his risky actions; he explains to Maverick (although "shouting at him" would be more accurate) that he has to send a Tomcat tandem to the Navy's Fighter Weapons School in Miramar near San Diego for additional training.
Maverick is secretly overjoyed at this new venture; the best end up being Top Gun instructors. Also secretly, Stinger hopes that it changes the arrogant, rule-breaking Lieutenant before something happens to him or Goose.
There are many memorable moments in the film including the flying scenes as well as the memorable volley-ball scene (which I hope they have on the sequel!). As I said earlier, 'Top Gun' is also accompanied by a now very iconic soundtrack which fits in equally well with the film.
I really enjoyed 'Top Gun' for what it was and I hope that when 'Top Gun: Maverick' comes out this year, it's just as worthy as its predecessor.
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