Top Gun at 40: The Tale Behind the Legendary Tom Cruise Action Hit

      On the 40th anniversary of its release, Hasitha Fernando explores the narrative behind Top Gun…

      Top Gun is often regarded as the ultimate summer blockbuster of the 1980s. Bursting with thrilling aerial visuals, an irresistibly charismatic Tom Cruise, and one of the most memorable film soundtracks ever, Top Gun revolutionized the concept of “popcorn cinema.” As we mark the film’s 40th anniversary, let's delve into its behind-the-scenes tale and more.

      Many writers initially turned down the project

      The original source of inspiration for Top Gun came from an article called “Top Gun” by Ehud Yonay, published in the May 1983 issue of California magazine. This article detailed the everyday experiences of real fighter pilots based at Naval Air Station Miramar in San Diego, accompanied by striking aerial photographs from then-Lieutenant Commander Charles “Heater” Heatley. This piece captured the interest of producers Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, who imagined a “sports movie set in the sky” and sought out multiple screenwriters to create a viable screenplay for the film.

      Initially, many of these screenwriters declined the offer, not recognizing the project's potential. Eventually, however, the producers found a writing team willing to take on the challenge: Jim Cash and Jack Epps Jr. Unfamiliar with the topic, Epps attended several declassified Top Gun training courses at Miramar and even experienced a flight in an F-14. This research helped enhance the authenticity of the story they were developing, but despite their hard work, the first draft of the screenplay did not impress Bruckheimer and Simpson.

      Tony Scott was chosen based on a commercial he directed

      The late Tony Scott was known for influencing the contemporary action film genre with his dynamic and stylish filmmaking, evident in works such as Beverly Hills Cop II, True Romance, Crimson Tide, and Unstoppable. At the time Top Gun was in pre-production, Scott was primarily focused on television commercials, and it was a particular commercial he made for Saab—featuring a Saab 900 turbo racing against a Saab 37 Viggen fighter jet—that caught Bruckheimer and Simpson’s attention, prompting them to recruit Scott for their high-energy project. Before Scott’s hiring, David Cronenberg and John Carpenter were considered for the directing role, but both declined.

      Producers had their sights set on Tom Cruise after seeing him in Risky Business

      Tom Cruise epitomizes the summer blockbuster star. His dedication to his craft and willingness to perform dangerous stunts for the thrill of entertainment set him apart from his contemporaries. Fresh from his success in the coming-of-age comedy Risky Business, Cruise was approached by Bruckheimer and Simpson to lead their film. Initially hesitant, Cruise was persuaded to accept the role by Ridley Scott, Tony's brother, who was directing Legend with him.

      Cruise became even more enthusiastic after flying with The Blue Angels, with Bruckheimer recounting, “They took Tom up there, and they did five Gs. They performed barrel rolls, executing everything. He was feeling it in the plane. Upon landing, he dashed to a payphone and stated, ‘I’m in. I’m doing the movie. I love it. This is great.’” Before Cruise was cast in this now-famous role, various actors including Matthew Modine, Emilio Estevez, Sean Penn, Patrick Swayze, Ralph Macchio, Charlie Sheen, Rob Lowe, and Michael J. Fox were considered for the part.

      Kelly McGillis’ character was inspired by a real flight instructor who challenged expectations

      Kelly McGillis was cast as Charlotte “Charlie” Blackwood in Top Gun, following her acclaimed breakout performance in 1985’s Witness. Her character was inspired by a real civilian flight instructor named Christine Fox, who was working at Miramar while the producers were researching the film. Fox went on to achieve a notable military career, ultimately serving as Acting Deputy Secretary of Defense during President Barack Obama’s administration, becoming the highest-ranking woman in the U.S. Department of Defense.

      Similar to Fox, McGillis’ character was tall, blonde, and wore high heels. However, during her scenes with Cruise, McGillis had to go barefoot to align with his height. Charlie's role, originally conceived as a mere love interest for the male lead, underwent significant revisions after Dawn Steel, then head of Paramount, declined to approve the project. Before McGillis was chosen, Ally Sheedy, Demi Moore, Brooke Shields, and Julianne Phillips were also considered for the part.

      Val Kilmer was in the film solely due to contractual obligations

      It is not an exaggeration to say that the late Val Kilmer was one of the standout actors of his generation. He delivered remarkable performances in films like The Doors, Tombstone, and Heat and was described by film critic Roger Ebert as “the most unsung leading man of his generation.” However, Kilmer