(Spoiler alert)
I could understand the opinion that Top Gun Maverick is better than the 1986 Top Gun. However, Top Gun Maverick would not be as great as it is without all of that history and context from 1986 Top Gun. I loved Top Gun since I was a kid in the 80s and watched it dozens of times over the years. However, Top Gun Maverick takes all of that history and pushes the limit and raises the bar. What a fantastic experience to sit and immerse myself in this film. Every element was awesome! Some of the dog fighting scenes are jaw dropping. The maneuver performed by the enemy that even surprises Maverick comes to mind. It was a true holy cow moment. The relationship between Mav and Rooster and it's evolution was well written and acted. The scene with Ice were poignant and Cruse truly honored Val Kilmer by having him in this movie.
This movie is brilliant!!! Bravo Bravo Bravo!!!