10 Movies & Shows Like Top Gun (1986)

Description: This sci-fi war film involves a modern aircraft carrier traveling back in time to the day before the Pearl Harbor attack. Like 'Top Gun,' it features naval aviation and the tension between technology and human decision-making. The film's aerial sequences and military themes make it a compelling companion to 'Top Gun.'

Fact: The film stars Kirk Douglas and Martin Sheen. It uses real U.S. Navy aircraft and ships, adding to its authenticity. The movie's time-travel premise was unique for its time.

Description: While 'The Right Stuff' is more of a historical drama about the early days of the U.S. space program, it shares with 'Top Gun' a focus on the bravery, skill, and camaraderie of pilots. Both films celebrate the spirit of aviation and the personal sacrifices of those who push the limits of human capability. The storytelling style is similarly epic, with a mix of personal drama and large-scale action.

Fact: The film is based on Tom Wolfe's book of the same name. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score. The movie features real-life astronauts like Chuck Yeager and John Glenn.

Description: Released the same year as 'Top Gun,' 'Iron Eagle' also focuses on aerial combat and the daring exploits of a young pilot. While 'Top Gun' is more about naval aviation and training, 'Iron Eagle' leans into a more action-packed, rescue mission narrative. Both films feature a rebellious protagonist who must prove himself in the skies, accompanied by a soundtrack filled with 80s rock anthems.

Fact: The film was inspired by the success of 'Top Gun' and was rushed into production to capitalize on the trend. It spawned several sequels, though none achieved the same level of success. The movie's aerial sequences were praised for their realism, despite a lower budget than 'Top Gun.'

Description: While this film is about submarines rather than aircraft, it shares with 'Top Gun' a focus on military strategy, Cold War tensions, and the camaraderie among crew members. Both films are tense, action-packed, and feature charismatic leads (Tom Cruise in 'Top Gun,' Sean Connery in 'The Hunt for Red October').

Fact: The film is based on Tom Clancy's bestselling novel. It was Sean Connery's first major role after retiring as James Bond. The movie's suspenseful cat-and-mouse sequences are highly praised.

Description: Another submarine film, 'Crimson Tide' shares with 'Top Gun' themes of leadership, loyalty, and the pressures of military life. Both films feature intense, high-stakes scenarios where split-second decisions can have global consequences. The dynamic between the two leads (Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington) mirrors the mentor-student relationship in 'Top Gun.'

Fact: The film's script was heavily influenced by real-life nuclear protocols. Quentin Tarantino did uncredited work on the dialogue. The movie's tension is driven by a conflict over orders and mutiny.

Description: This action thriller, like 'Top Gun,' involves a daring mission carried out by a small team of experts. While 'Top Gun' focuses on aerial combat, 'Executive Decision' is about a mid-air hijacking. Both films emphasize teamwork, quick thinking, and the heroism of their protagonists.

Fact: The film features an early role for Halle Berry. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of counter-terrorism operations. The movie's climax involves a tense mid-air rescue mission.

Description: This film shares with 'Top Gun' a focus on military aviation and the survival of a pilot in hostile territory. While 'Top Gun' is more about training and competition, 'Behind Enemy Lines' is a tense, action-packed survival story. Both films highlight the skill and determination of their protagonists in high-stakes situations.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the experiences of a real-life U.S. Navy pilot. It features intense aerial sequences and a gripping chase through enemy territory. Owen Wilson's performance was a departure from his usual comedic roles.

Description: Like 'Top Gun,' 'Pearl Harbor' combines intense aerial combat with a personal love story. Both films feature stunning flight sequences and a focus on the bravery of pilots. While 'Pearl Harbor' is a historical war drama, it shares with 'Top Gun' a blend of action, romance, and patriotism.

Fact: The film's attack sequence on Pearl Harbor is one of the most expensive ever filmed. It was directed by Michael Bay, known for his explosive action sequences. The movie's love triangle was a major plot point, similar to the romantic subplot in 'Top Gun.'

Description: 'Stealth' is a sci-fi action film that, like 'Top Gun,' revolves around elite pilots and cutting-edge aircraft. The film explores themes of technology versus human skill, similar to how 'Top Gun' contrasts Maverick's instincts with traditional training. The aerial combat sequences are visually stunning, though 'Stealth' incorporates more futuristic elements.

Fact: The film was a box office flop but has gained a cult following. It features an AI-controlled fighter jet gone rogue, a theme that resonates with modern concerns about autonomous weapons. The movie's director, Rob Cohen, also directed 'The Fast and the Furious.'

Description: As the direct sequel to 'Top Gun' (1986), 'Top Gun: Maverick' shares the same high-octane aerial combat sequences, themes of camaraderie and personal growth, and the return of Tom Cruise as Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell. The film continues to explore the tension between Maverick's rebellious nature and his responsibilities as a mentor, much like the original. The visual aesthetics are even more breathtaking, with real-life flight sequences that push the boundaries of filmmaking.

Fact: Tom Cruise performed many of his own stunts, including flying the fighter jets. The cast underwent intense flight training to prepare for their roles. The film was delayed multiple times due to the COVID-19 pandemic but became a massive box office success upon release.