On this day May 16, 1986, Top Gun premiered in theaters across the United States, launching Tom Cruise into superstardom and delivering one of the most iconic films of the decade. Directed by Tony Scott and starring Tom Cruise as Pete Maverick Mitchell and Val Kilmer as Iceman, the film combined high flying action, romance and a memorable soundtrack to become a pop culture phenomenon.
Set against the backdrop of the elite United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, the story followed Maverick as he trained to become the best of the best while confronting personal loss, rivalry and his own recklessness. The film’s blend of slick visuals, intense aerial sequences and charismatic performances helped it connect with audiences in a major way.
Top Gun became the highest grossing movie of 1986, earning over 350 million dollars worldwide and turning its cast, soundtrack and quotes into staples of 80s cinema.
Fun fact: The soundtrack for Top Gun featured the chart topping hit Take My Breath Away by Berlin and Danger Zone by Kenny Loggins, both of which became radio staples.
Set against the backdrop of the elite United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, the story followed Maverick as he trained to become the best of the best while confronting personal loss, rivalry and his own recklessness. The film’s blend of slick visuals, intense aerial sequences and charismatic performances helped it connect with audiences in a major way.
Top Gun became the highest grossing movie of 1986, earning over 350 million dollars worldwide and turning its cast, soundtrack and quotes into staples of 80s cinema.
Fun fact: The soundtrack for Top Gun featured the chart topping hit Take My Breath Away by Berlin and Danger Zone by Kenny Loggins, both of which became radio staples.
