Tom Cruise returns to his popular role of Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, arrogant but goodhearted and incredibly talented navy fighter pilot of the original 1986 film, now some 30+ years later much the same thank goodness, though he hasn't risen above the rank of Captain and is currently a test pilot when he is ordered back to the Top Gun program to teach prior top graduates on a secret and dangerous mission to destroy a rogue uranium plant in a canyon on foreign territory, and deal with the estranged son of his late best friend "Goose" killed in the first film, and now a pilot himself. Jennnifer Connelly plays his current love interest Penny, who was mentioned in the first film, and Val Kilmer returns briefly as "Iceman" now a respected Admiral nearing the end of his life.
Surprisingly superb sequel surpasses the first in every way, though pays its respects to it most satisfactorily while still telling its own story and introducing interesting new characters who could possibly star in future installments, if this turns into a franchise. A huge blockbuster hit that troubled Hollywood could learn many lessons from, as this film is most exciting and emotional, not preachy with the "message", but an old-fashioned patriotic feel-good adventure that hasn't been seen for far too long. Not at all surprising story wise, but well-acted and directed (Joseph Kosinski) picture hits all the right buttons.
Surprisingly superb sequel surpasses the first in every way, though pays its respects to it most satisfactorily while still telling its own story and introducing interesting new characters who could possibly star in future installments, if this turns into a franchise. A huge blockbuster hit that troubled Hollywood could learn many lessons from, as this film is most exciting and emotional, not preachy with the "message", but an old-fashioned patriotic feel-good adventure that hasn't been seen for far too long. Not at all surprising story wise, but well-acted and directed (Joseph Kosinski) picture hits all the right buttons.