Top Gun (1986)

May 13 was Top Gun Day, the day that Top Gun was released in 1986, a Tuesday.  Truly an iconic 80s movie.    Just perfect timing for that Second Term Reagan, Morning In America, 80s swagger.

It appeared on the scene with Tom Cruise peaking in popularity and did a good job of selling the sizzle:  The fighter jets, the volleyball, the Bromance with Goose, the steamy sexy scenes [you know the one!], the motorcycling, and that great fashion statement of the leather jacket, the t shirt and the aviator shades, plus the spiky hair.  Generations still strive for that look of coolness.

And while a touchstone, it was alas and remains on review, not a very good movie.  [* * 1/2 of 4] Hotshot jet pilot tries to live up to his late father (never seen), recklessly gets his tail gunner buddy killed, and spend the rest of the movie redeeming himself in the eyes of his lovely instructor Kelly McGillis.

But just remember the good times:  Maverick and Goose, Need for Speed, She's Lost that Loving Feeling, a fine soundtrack (Danger Zone, Take My Breath Away, Top Gun Anthem - Harold Faltermeyer], Heaven in Your Eyes), Buzzing the Tower, Ice and good old fashioned Soviet Butt-Kicking.

God Bless America!