diana_m_j

Wow...what can I say that hasn't already been said? I am a child of the 80s, and am (of course) a huge fan of the original Top Gun. I can't even count how many times I have seen it, and the soundtrack is still included in all of my playlists. When I heard talk of a sequel many years back, I figured it would be *good* or maybe even *great*. How could it not be with Tom Cruise, who is arguably the hardest working man in Hollywood, at the helm? This man's talent, charisma, and perseverance defies logic. But...the last thing I expected was for this film to surpass the original...I mean...there's no way that could happen. Right?

I was wrong. Very wrong. Because in my opinion, it is superior to its predecessor. I am literally blown away.

I purchased this movie on streaming last night, and have already watched it twice all the way through, and have replayed certain scenes multiple times. Put it this way...my second viewing took about 3 hours. I just can't get enough. From the acting, to the music, to the scenery, to the plot, to the action sequences, it is nothing short of a masterpiece. I haven't had this type of an experience watching a movie since...gosh...I don't even know when. What an amazing gift we have been given.

I won't provide spoilers, so I will attempt to be cryptic when I say that it is Top Gun (1986) as a main course, with a *very* generous helping of Iron Eagle (1986), and a dash of Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004). (The Kill Bill reference is the "diner scene" near the beginning of the film.)

Unless you are a boring person with no taste in movies, you will love this one!

The psychological thriller genre is my very favorite - I have pretty much seen them all. When Murder by Numbers came out 20 years ago (when I was in my 20s), I really liked it. Yes, it has its problems and is a bit cliche, but it is a solid film that I still go back to for a bit of nostalgia from time to time. Also, I think the acting is overall really good, with Ryan Gosling being the standout.

In the headline, I mentioned that it "hasn't aged well." By that statement, I am not referring to the look and feel of the film - I am referring to the social issues. HYPOCRISY ABOUNDS.

For starters, Sandra Bullock's character (lead detective "Cassie") sexually harasses her new male partner, who is junior to her on the police force. In 2002, audiences seemed to think this was ok..."cool" even, because after all, she is a strong, attractive woman. Also, Sandra's character becomes obsessed with one of the teenage suspects. While nothing ever "happened" between them, the sexual overtones were very strong. She hated him, but she was also attracted to him. It's just...cringe. Finally, a 38-year-old Sandra Bullock (the real person) began dating a 22-year-old Ryan Gosling (the real person) during filming. I don't have an issue with the age difference, but she was a PRODUCER of the film...and the age gap just makes it a bit more...cringe.

It is worth noting that I am not a prude. The reason I have an issue with all of this is the sheer HYPOCRISY of it. If the genders had been reversed (both in the film and the off-screen relationship), there would be outrage (especially in today's world). Not only was it deemed acceptable for Sandra/Cassie to do these things...people actually APPLAUDED her for it! This whole "I'm a strong woman, so I can do whatever I want" theme is just wrong.

Gripes aside, I DO like the film. I just see it through a different lens than I did back in 2002.

I am surprised by many of the bad reviews, primarily those that are hung up on the technical flaws in the story line. What were you expecting? If everything went by the book, there would be no drama. Sure...there are some (many) face palm moments. Yes...I know the probability of surviving a fall from a high altitude is very unlikely. I know transportation disaster investigators aren't supposed to be "solving crimes" and taking down the bad guys (and gals...or...whatever they identify as this week). I know teenagers (or anyone, really) cannot infiltrate a national security system in like 5 minutes (especially one that doesn't come off as particularly bright). The list goes on. For shows like this, you just have to be willing to suspend disbelief if you want to be entertained. I did roll my eyes quite a bit, but it was still a fun, albeit bumpy, ride, and I binged both seasons in 3 days.

I also agree with the reviews that point out many of the obvious plot "twists," complete with red herrings. But these types of shows (and films) are often written that way, and include many plot holes. Let's face it: many people are dumb and don't even know the difference. Ignorance is bliss. For all of you Smarty Pants Armchair Critics, just go with it. Jeez, people.

You are either willing to let the eye roll moments slide or you aren't. And it's ok if you aren't...you can always watch documentaries on YouTube or the BBC. Or watch paint dry. I can still have fun with this often preposterous genre...it has a certain charm with all of its melodrama and hokieness. Or maybe I am just simple minded and weird to think that way. Anyway.

Just keep in mind that this isn't meant to be 100% (or even 50%) technically accurate, and isn't meant to be a documentary; it is a fun show that you will sometimes laugh with, and sometimes laugh at. Get your popcorn ready, fasten your seat belts, and keep your seat backs and tray tables in their full upright and locked position and carry on belonging securely stowed until you have reached cruising altitude. But there are emergency exits (the nearest one may be located behind you) and life rafts beneath your seats in the event you need to hit the eject button. Sorry...parachutes are not provided, so you'd better bring your own. Go ahead...do it. I just hope you survive the fall or don't get sucked into the engine on your way out.

On a serious note, I felt very emotional watching Christopher Plummer in his very last acting role. I have always been a huge fan, and it was bittersweet to see him on my screen. RIP.

In my opinion, Archie Punjabi did a fantastic job as the lead detective...err, I mean....transportation safety investigator. She has a great screen presence.

Bottom line: lighten up a bit and give it a chance. Or don't. I don't care. It's your call. Peace out.