Unveiling Top Gun: Maverick's Hidden Gem: Tom Cruise's Astonishing Feat Reveals Unprecedented Piloting Skills
Tom Cruise's authenticity shines in Top Gun: Maverick as he flawlessly navigates aerial sequences His genuine piloting skills transport viewers into the thrilling world of fighter jets, making the movie a truly immersive experience
Summary
Retired astronaut Chris Hadfield commends Tom Cruise's portrayal in Top Gun: Maverick, specifically noting a standout moment during the Darkstar sequence that demonstrates the actor's expertise.Maverick announces, "We have information Alpha," as he maneuvers the Darkstar, indicating his possession of weather and runway details. This small but significant moment enhances the film's realism. Despite the significant use of visual effects, the movie prioritized capturing its aerial sequences through practical means, resulting in an exhilarating experience for viewers.
Retired astronaut and engineer Chris Hadfield examines Tom Cruise's performance in Top Gun: Maverick, highlighting a hidden aspect that demonstrates his expertise as a pilot. Serving as a sequel to Tony Scott's original film from 1986, Joseph Kosinski's 2022 installment follows Cruise's character, Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, as he trains a new group of recruits for a perilous mission. The movie was immensely successful, earning over $1.493 billion at the box office and receiving acclaim from both audiences and critics.
During a recent video for Vanity Fair, Hadfield deconstructs scenes in Top Gun: Maverick, commending one subtle detail in Cruise's performance during the film's gripping Darkstar sequence.
Cruise's one-line utterance during the sequence, according to Hadfield, may not be essential to the story, but it highlights the film's admirable emphasis on accuracy and authenticity. Read Hadfield's full comment below:
"This movie is something I love. I can't think of a better aviation film ever made. Credit goes to the individuals involved in its production, particularly Tom Cruise. The scene towards the end, where Tom is piloting a P-51 Mustang, that's his actual Mustang. It's as if he's a genuine pilot."
Why Top Gun 2's Aerial Sequences Feel So Real
: Tom Cruise cleverly included a charming detail during the Darkstar sequence. While he is preparing for takeoff, he casually informs, "I have information Alpha." This implies that he has already listened to the recording which provides essential weather and runway details. By including this scene, Cruise adds authenticity to the movie, showing his attention to realistic aviation procedures.
The popularity of Top Gun: Maverick can be attributed to its inclusion of extensive visual effects; however, the film's emphasis on practical action is another significant factor. Shortly after the release of the first movie, discussions about a sequel arose, but Cruise was initially reluctant due to various reasons, including the limited filmmaking technology available at the time. This technology was necessary to immerse audiences in the thrilling experiences of real actors inside the cockpits of genuine fighter jets.
With advancements in camera technology, it became possible to train the cast of Top Gun: Maverick to experience and endure the intense G forces that accompany the aerial maneuvers depicted in the film. The cast underwent a rigorous training program known as "Tom Cruise Boot Camp," where they not only developed a strong bond as a unit but also prepared themselves mentally and physically for the extensive time they would spend in fighter jets.
While the cast, including Tom Cruise himself, were not permitted to fly the military aircraft, they were present inside the planes alongside real Navy pilots. This dedication to capturing authentic action translates to the screen, making the real flying sequences far more exhilarating than actors pretending in front of a green screen. The success and impact of Top Gun: Maverick are evident not only among audiences but also among experts in aeronautics, as noted by Hadfield's recent comment.
Source: Vanity Fair/ YouTube
