How I Saw It Early
I'm not a critic. I'm just a guy who loves movies and happened to get an invite to a test screening of Top Gun: Maverick 2 last week in Los Angeles. The first one (2022) was a surprise hit that made over $1.4 billion. I loved it. So I was nervous about the sequel. Sequels to huge blockbusters usually disappoint. But I'm here to tell you: this one doesn't. It's genuinely great. Here's my no-spoiler review.
The Story: More Personal Than Expected
The plot picks up a few years after the first film. Maverick (Tom Cruise) is still at Top Gun, training new pilots for a mission that involves hypersonic jets. But this time, the personal stakes are higher. I can't say much, but the emotional core involves a character from the first movie that you'll recognize. It's not just explosions — there are real consequences. I was surprised by how much the story hits you. The script, written by Ehren Kruger and Christopher McQuarrie, has depth. It's not just a cash grab.
The Action: Even Better Than the First
The aerial dogfights in the first movie were incredible because they used real jets and real pilots. This one goes further. There's a scene involving a canyon chase that had the entire audience holding their breath. I later read that Tom Cruise insisted on using practical effects again, and it shows. The IMAX footage is stunning. The sound design is so good you feel the jets in your chest. If you thought the first movie's action was peak, you'll be pleasantly surprised.
The New Characters: A Mixed Bag
Miles Teller returns as Rooster, and he's great — he has more to do this time. Glen Powell is back as Hangman, and he's still a cocky jerk, but they give him a redemption arc that works. The new additions include a female pilot played by newcomer Liana Hernandez, who steals every scene. She's tough and talented. But there's a villain character (a rogue pilot) that feels underdeveloped — he's just there to be a threat. That's my main critique. The movie could have used a stronger antagonist.