Unlocking Top Gun 3: Maverick's Fate Allows for Resurrecting the 1986 Movie's Lost Ending

Top Gun 3 has the chance to revisit a poignant scene that was originally cut from the ending of the first Top Gun movie, thanks to the release of Top Gun: Maverick. The newer film, despite its exciting action sequences and comedic moments, takes on a darker tone compared to its predecessor. This shift is mainly due to Tom Cruise's character Maverick, who transforms from a confident young pilot in the original film to a washed-up former hero in Top Gun: Maverick. Maverick's once charming recklessness now has a more tragic undertone as he is faced with the need to mature.

The climax of Top Gun: Maverick highlights Maverick's journey towards self-forgiveness, particularly in relation to the death of his friend Goose from the first Top Gun film. Maverick finds solace and closure when he and Goose's son Rooster save each other during a perilous mission. This moment of redemption follows the passing of Iceman, who had urged Maverick to let go of his guilt over Goose's death in their final conversation. Despite the sadness of Iceman's death, Top Gun: Maverick skillfully connects it to Goose's fate, enhancing Maverick's character development and making his story even more compelling.

Top Gun 3 Can Revive The Original Movie's Deleted Ending

Top Gun: Maverick’s sequel could bring back Maverick’s trip to Goose’s grave

Top Gun's hero Maverick sits in the car with Charlie at a military cemetery in a cut scene-1 - Top Gun: Maverick’s sequel could bring back Maverick’s trip to Goose’s grave - Top Gun 3 Can Revive The Original Movie's Deleted Ending

In the original Top Gun ending, Maverick pays a visit to Goose's grave after completing a successful mission and reuniting with Charlie. While this scene was touching, it felt somewhat out of place in the otherwise upbeat movie. With the upcoming Top Gun 3, there's an opportunity to revisit this moment and make it more impactful. Especially now that Maverick has also lost Iceman, adding another layer of emotion to his story.

Top Gun 3 Would Improve Top Gun's Cut Grave Scene

In Top Gun 3, Maverick could visit Goose and Iceman’s graves instead of just Goose’s resting place. This would be less depressing than Maverick visiting Goose’s grave in Top Gun’s original ending since the protagonist never held himself responsible for Iceman’s death. This makes it clear that Maverick is seeking guidance from them, rather than trying to right a perceived wrong. While the plot of Top Gun 3 is not yet known, the sequel shouldn’t see Maverick continue to torture himself over his role in Goose’s death. Instead, he should visit to seek guidance from both of his late friends.

Top Gun’s missing ending scene should have come earlier in its story

Iceman smiling at Maverick in Top Gun: Maverick - Top Gun’s missing ending scene should have come earlier in its story - Top Gun 3 Would Improve Top Gun's Cut Grave Scene

Top Gun 3 could improve its ending by moving the grave visit scene earlier in the movie. Instead of waiting until after the climax, Maverick could visit Goose and Iceman's graves sooner and deliver an emotional monologue. This change would add a heartfelt moment to the film without it feeling out of place. Maverick's doubts about his mission would still be present, but he would find some comfort by visiting his fallen friends.

In order to differentiate itself from Top Gun: Maverick and avoid a romance subplot, Top Gun 3 could rearrange its story. By placing the grave visit scene in the middle of the movie, Maverick's crisis of conscience would have a more natural progression. This adjustment would prevent the scene from feeling overly sentimental and repetitive. Regardless of the plot details, it is likely that Maverick will face inner turmoil once again, making the grave visit a pivotal moment in the sequel.

Revisiting Top Gun's Missing Ending Makes More Sense In Top Gun 3

Maverick visiting Goose and Iceman’s graves makes more sense now

Rooster and Maverick in Top Gun 2 - Maverick visiting Goose and Iceman’s graves makes more sense now - Revisiting Top Gun's Missing Ending Makes More Sense In Top Gun 3

As Maverick has aged since the original movie, it is natural for him to grapple with his mortality in Top Gun 3. If the sequel focuses on advanced fighter technology and drone warfare, it could intensify Maverick's fear of becoming irrelevant. The heartbreaking losses of Iceman and Goose would hit harder, especially in a scene where he pays tribute at their graves. Maverick is facing a changing world without his old comrades by his side.

Although it may not seem like it, adding a touch of sadness to an action-packed blockbuster can actually enhance the overall story. The success of both Top Gun movies can be attributed to their ability to incorporate necessary emotional moments into their storylines. While the movies may not be entirely realistic and take creative liberties with Navy life, the tragic deaths of Goose and Iceman added depth to otherwise upbeat summer blockbusters. In the upcoming Top Gun 3, Maverick visiting their graves in the sequel could continue this trend, potentially improving upon the original ending of Top Gun thanks to Top Gun: Maverick.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the potential of "Top Gun 3" to revisit a poignant scene from the original film that was ultimately cut from its ending. By exploring the themes of loss, redemption, and the aging process, the sequel has the opportunity to expand upon Maverick's character arc and deepen the emotional impact of the franchise. The idea of Maverick visiting both Goose's and Iceman's graves in the sequel is particularly compelling, as it would provide a powerful moment of reflection and guidance for the aging hero.

Ultimately, the success of "Top Gun 3" will depend on its ability to strike a balance between high-octane action and heartfelt storytelling. By embracing the darker undertones that have been introduced in "Top Gun: Maverick," the sequel has the potential to create a truly memorable and emotionally resonant experience for audiences.