Top Gun: Maverick's Ending Hints 1 Wasted Character Will Get A Better Story In Top Gun 3

Introduction

Top Gun: Maverick, the long-awaited sequel to the iconic 1986 film, introduced a host of new characters, some of whom were underutilized in the action-packed plot. Among them, Jon Hamm's Cyclone stood out as a character with untapped potential, and the ending of the movie hinted at a possible redemption arc for this intriguing antagonist in Top Gun 3.

Jon Hamm as Beau Simpson looking serious in Top Gun Maverick

While the sequel focused on the heroic moments of several characters, it left some crucial figures with limited opportunities to shine, including Monica Barbaro's Phoenix and Lewis Pullman's fan-favorite character B.O.B. However, the most notable misstep was the underuse of Jon Hamm's Cyclone, a one-dimensional antagonist who deserved more screen time and development.

Jon Hamm as Cyclone in Top Gun Maverick in a military uniform having a serious conversation

Top Gun: Maverick Wasted Jon Hamm’s Cyclone

Jon Hamm's portrayal of Cyclone in Top Gun: Maverick was marked by standout scenes that showcased glimpses of the character's potential. However, the star's role was disappointingly small, especially considering his caliber as an actor. While Cyclone's interactions with Maverick hinted at a compelling rivalry, the lack of focus on this character limited the impact of his role as an antagonist.

Jon Hamm in Top Gun 2 Maverick

In the absence of a strong human villain, Cyclone was poised to take on the role of a formidable adversary to Maverick, echoing the dynamic between Maverick and Iceman in the original film. However, the sequel's fast-paced plot and minimal screen time for Cyclone hindered the development of this potential rivalry, leaving audiences wanting more from the character.

Custom image of Jon Hamm's Cyclone beside a beach football game in Top Gun 2

Top Gun: Maverick’s Ending Set Up Cyclone’s Redemption

The ending of Top Gun: Maverick presented a pivotal moment for Cyclone, hinting at the character's potential redemption in the next installment of the franchise. When faced with a critical decision, Cyclone initially chose caution over heroism, but later made an off-screen change of heart that resulted in the triumphant rescue of key characters. This shift in attitude set the stage for a possible redemption arc for Cyclone in Top Gun 3, offering Jon Hamm the opportunity to explore the character's hidden depth and complexity onscreen.

Custom image of Jon Hamm's Cyclone beside mavericks test run in Top Gun Maverick

The subtle nod exchanged between Cyclone and Maverick in the closing moments of the movie hinted at a thawing of relations between the two characters, laying the groundwork for a more nuanced dynamic in the future. Just as Iceman's transformation in Top Gun: Maverick resonated with audiences, the potential evolution of Cyclone from antagonist to ally could provide a compelling narrative thread for the third installment of the franchise.

Custom image of Top Gun 2's Tom Cruise as Maverick and Jon Hamm as Cyclone