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The 'Top' of 1986

© Candice Livingston

The top grossing film of 1986 is also the 39th highest grossing film of all time. Top Gun was released on May 16, 1986 and has become one of the world's favorite movies. It was not Tom Cruise's first successful film, but it will likely be one for which he is most remembered.

Cruise was not the only successful actor that turned up in Top Gun. Anthony Edwards played Cruise's kooky sidekick, Goose. Edwards has gone on to find success on NBC's hit series, 'ER'. Kelly McGillis played a tough instructor who falls for Cruise's character, and Meg Ryan shows up briefly as Goose's wife. Another big Hollywood name who made an impression in Top Gun is Val Kilmer who played Iceman and reportedly did not want to act in the film but had to because of contractual obligations. Tom Skerritt also plays an important role in the film as Viper, Cruise's superior officer.

As the cast overview reveals, the tagline refers to more than just the plot: 'Up there with the best of the best.'

Quotes from this film could never do the movie justice, but here's a try:

Viper: In case some of you are wondering who the best is, they are up here in this plaque. (Turns to Maverick) Do you think your name will be on that plaque?
Maverick: Yes sir.
Viper: That's pretty arrogant considering the company here, don't you think?
Maverick: Yes sir.
Viper: I like that in a pilot.

Iceman: You two really are cowboys.
Maverick: What's your problem Kazanski?
Iceman: You're everyone's problem. That's because every time you go up in the air, you're unsafe. I don't like you because you're dangerous.
Maverick: That's right Ice...man. I am dangerous.

Maverick: Requesting permission for flyby.
Air Boss Johnson: That's a negative ghostrider. The pattern is full.

Viper: (Discussing Maverick) Let me ask you something: If you had to go into battle, would you want him on your side?
Jester: I don't know. I just don't know.

Charlie: Excuse me Lieutenant. Is there something wrong?
Maverick: Yes, ma'am. The data on the MiG is inaccurate.
Charlie: How's that Lieutenant?
Maverick: Well, I just happened to se a MiG 28 do a...
Goose: We!
Maverick: Uh, sorry Goose. We just happened to see a MiG 28 do a 4g negative dive.
Charlie: Where did you see this?
Maverick: Uh, that's classified.
Charlie: It's what?
Maverick: It's classified. I could tell you, but then I'd have to kill you.

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