How Many Top Gun Movies Are There? (April 2024)

There are now two significant films in the “Top Gun” franchise, which is well-known for its thrilling action sequences and endearing portrayals of naval aviators. The exciting world of skilled jet pilots was introduced to the big screen and popularised by the 1986 classic “Top Gun,” starring Tom Cruise as Maverick.

“Top Gun: Maverick,” the much-awaited follow-up, takes viewers back to the exhilarating realm of aerial combat while continuing Maverick’s narrative. These two films, which currently form the foundation of this franchise, enthral moviegoers with their gripping flying scenes and endearing characters. Now, let’s begin with the topic of the article.

A Quick Info Regarding Top Gun

How Many Top Gun Movies Are There?

In the history of military combat and aviation, the franchise has cemented its status as legendary. Much of the franchise’s popularity may be ascribed to its 1986 first film, which starred Tom Cruise as the fearless and accomplished pilot Pete “Maverick” Mitchell.

Due to the film’s success, some have asked how many Top Gun films there are. Let’s find out below.

1. Top Gun (1986):

The plot of Top Gun (1986) centres on Pete Mitchell (Cruise), a rash and reckless Navy ace known by the code name Maverick, who is accepted into the esteemed Fighter School at Miramar.

The impetuous young pilot will face off against the finest, including Iceman (Val Kilmer), a gifted and competitive student. Even though Mitchell has to offer all right now, he is still troubled by his father’s unexpected and peculiar demise.

Given the popularity of the movie and its status as a cult classic, a sequel was inevitable, particularly in this era of reboots. With eleven victories, the movie was a success.

2. Top Gun: Maverick (2022):

Cruise plays Pete Mitchell, the movie’s protagonist and a top naval pilot who visits and communicates with the 1986 cast members in this movie. This includes the much-discussed, endearing reunion between Cruise and Kilmer’s Iceman in the film.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Top Gun (@topgunmovie)

For Kilmer, who suffered from throat cancer and lost his ability to talk, being on TV was an outstanding achievement. It was claimed that the innovative application of artificial intelligence (AI) speech reconstruction technology made it possible for Kilmer’s renowned character to make a big-screen comeback.

Maverick’s history becomes his present as he mentors a new class of aviation grads, including Teller, the son of his late co-pilot Goose.

Happy Birthday to the Maverick, Tom Cruise! ✈️ pic.twitter.com/kSozmRFZ5v

— Paramount Movies (@ParamountMovies) July 3, 2023

Where Can We Watch Top Gun Movies?

The franchise series is available to watch on MGM+. Amazon Prime Video, Paramount Plus, Vudu and The Roku Channel. You can also buy or rent it on platforms like Google Play, Apple TV and YouTube.

Is There Going to be a Top Gun 3?

As of this writing, only two films have been released till now. Potentially, Top Gun 3 is currently out of stock for development. Naturally, this does not imply that it won’t occur. With the success of the 1986 original and the 2022 follow-up, it seems silly not to pursue the narrative for a third film.

However, the makers stated, “That would be great, but that’s all up to TC… it’s all up to Tom,” during an interview. We’ve been talking about it lately. We’ll see.

If there is a third part, it may examine Maverick’s retirement prospects and adjustment to civilian life before he is eventually summoned back to action.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is “Top Gun: Maverick” a Follow-Up of the First Top Gun (1986) Film?

Yes, the second part of the franchise is the follow-up to the first movie released in 1986.

2. Can I Watch “Top Gun: Maverick” Before the First and Original Part of the Franchise?

Despite being a sequel, part 2 does not require viewing the first movie to enjoy this one. On the other hand, considering the first film can provide background information and an understanding of the characters’ connections in the follow-up.

3. Is it Possible to Buy or Stream “Top Gun”?

You may often watch the first part on several platforms or buy it on DVD, Blu-ray, or digital download. However, availability could change depending on the area and the available streaming services.

4. Who stars in Top Gun?

Tom Cruise stars as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell alongside Kelly McGillis, Val Kilmer, Anthony Edwards, and Tom Skerritt.

5. What genre is Top Gun?

Top Gun is primarily an action drama with elements of romance.

6. Was there a sequel to Top Gun?

A sequel titled “Top Gun: Maverick” was released, focusing on Maverick’s life decades after the original film.

7. Did Top Gun win any awards?

Top Gun won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Take My Breath Away.”

8. What is the significance of the call sign “Maverick”?

“Maverick” reflects the main character’s independent and non-conformist attitude, especially in his approach to flying and life.

9. Is Top Gun based on a true story?

While not based on a specific true story, Top Gun is inspired by real-life U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School and the experiences of military pilots.

10. How did Top Gun impact popular culture?

Top Gun significantly impacted popular culture, boosting military recruitment, popularizing aviator sunglasses and bomber jackets, and leaving a lasting legacy in film and music.

Wrapping Up

There are two primary Top Gun movies. The iconic classic debuted in 1986 and introduced viewers to the exhilarating world of naval aviation.

However, the franchise’s ongoing popularity and buzz might open the door for further films or spin-offs in the future.