Top Gun Blu-ray Review

"Top Gun" arrives on Blu-ray with a 1080p, AVC MPEG-4 transfer maintaining the original 2.35:1 aspect ratio, a definite improvement over past home video presentations. Notably sharper and more detailed, this transfer surpasses previous formats such as LaserDisc and standard-def DVDs. The Blu-ray reveals finer details that were previously obscured, showcasing the intricate elements like beads of sweat on pilots' faces and the detailed instrumentation inside the fighter jets. However, inconsistencies are present; the initial sequences aboard the aircraft carrier and in the air often appear dim and lacking in clarity. Some softness is noted in backgrounds, but foreground detail remains robust.

Despite minor speckles of dirt and the occasional white pop throughout the print, blacks are solid if not spectacular. The aerial combat scenes receive particular praise for their dynamic angles and visual impact, even though some shots reveal pixels. This high-definition release successfully balances vibrant colors—especially intense reds—with general visual integrity. However, viewers might notice certain shots suffering from excessive grain and uneven contrast, likely stock footage. Overall, "Top Gun" on Blu-ray marks a significant enhancement, offering a visually engaging experience with only a few technical shortcomings evident from its age.

The Blu-ray release of "Top Gun" delivers outstanding audio performance through its two lossless audio options: Dolby TrueHD 5.1 and DTS-HD Master Audio 6.1. Both tracks elevate the viewer experience with a substantial soundstage and precise imaging that immerses listeners in the action. The DTS-HD Master Audio 6.1 mix stands out by providing an additional channel and higher bitrate, producing a more pronounced and engaging audio experience. The mix showcases dynamic range, robust bass immersion, and seamless transitions between speakers, particularly during aerial dogfights and high-octane scenes. Iconic musical tracks like Kenny Loggins' "Danger Zone" and Berlin's "Take My Breath Away" are vividly rendered, filling the room with pulsating energy.

Throughout the film, the sound design is highly engaging. The DTS-HD MA track exhibits noticeable loudness and clarity over the Dolby TrueHD, with powerful subwoofer outputs that deliver tight and deep low frequencies. With active surrounds providing an immersive experience, dialogue remains clear and well-positioned within the mix. The audio's spatial representation creates an authentic environment, transposing listeners to aircraft carriers, aerial combat zones, and intimate scenes seamlessly. Notable audio elements, such as jet engines and machine gunfire, intensify the viewing experience with palpable realism.

Ultimately, while both lossless tracks perform exceptionally, the DTS-HD Master Audio 6.1 mix is the preferred choice for its superior bitrate and immersive qualities. It masterfully balances dialogue, music, and sound effects, making “Top Gun” sound better than ever. Paramount’s commitment to audio excellence is evident in this release, effectively capturing the film's excitement and grandeur in peak auditory form.

The Blu-ray edition of "Top Gun" offers a formidable array of extras that delve deep into the iconic film's production, featuring both engaging and informative content. Prominent among these extras is an extensive audio commentary, although disjointed at times, it offers a wealth of first-rate information from notable contributors like producer Jerry Bruckheimer, director Tony Scott, and technical advisors. The detailed two-and-a-half-hour documentary on the making of the film provides an exhaustive look into the production, encompassing fresh interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. Multi-angle storyboards offer insight into key sequences while the vintage materials, including music videos and TV spots, enrich the nostalgic experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insights from Bruckheimer, Scott, and technical advisors.
• Danger Zone: The Making of 'Top Gun': A comprehensive six-part documentary.
• Multi-Angle Storyboards: Sequences "Flat Spin" and "Jester’s Dead" with optional commentary.
• Best of the Best: Inside the Real Top Gun: Documentary on the real-life facility.
• Vintage Gallery: Music videos, TV spots, behind-the-scenes featurette, and interviews with Tom Cruise.

"Top Gun," starring Tom Cruise as the fearless aviator Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, is a quintessential 1980s film that remains a pop culture juggernaut. Cruise's portrayal of Maverick, a risk-taking fighter pilot aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise, is both charismatic and deeply flawed, capturing the dichotomy of a brash exterior masking inner turmoil. The film's narrative arc takes Maverick to the elite Fighter Weapons School, Top Gun, where he competes against the likes of the composed Iceman (Val Kilmer) and under the mentorship of veteran pilots Viper (Tom Skerritt) and Jester (Michael Ironside). The plot navigates through high-octane dogfights and personal tribulations, punctuated by his evolving relationship with instructor Charlie (Kelly McGillis).

Tony Scott's direction utilizes rapid editing and stylized cinematography to create an adrenaline-fueled experience, though some critiques highlight a lack of spatial clarity in aerial combat scenes. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and Don Simpson, "Top Gun" is more than just action-packed sequences; it is propelled by an ensemble cast that infuses life into relatively archetypal characters. Cruise, in possibly his most iconic role, portrays Maverick’s arc of learning from his reckless behavior driven by a desire to surpass his father’s legacy. Val Kilmer as Iceman represents the antithesis of Maverick’s impulsiveness with his calculative flying style, creating a dynamic tension that elevates the narrative.

Despite being laden with clichés and conventional storytelling, "Top Gun" excels through its compelling character portrayals and unforgettable soundtrack, notably Kenny Loggins' "Danger Zone" and Berlin's "Take My Breath Away." The film’s success was monumental, leading to significant cultural impacts such as surging sales of bomber jackets and aviator sunglasses, and even military recruitment boosts. Though critically divisive—viewed by some as a peak of '80s excess and by others as a heartfelt spectacle—the movie endures as a beloved classic, embodying the spirit of its era with unmatched vigor.

The Blu-ray release of "Top Gun" is an essential addition to any collection, especially for fans who have grown accustomed to the film's charming blend of action and melodrama. The Blu-ray edition offers a superior audio-visual experience compared to prior releases, specifically outshining the HD DVD version. Although the video transfer is not among the absolute best available in the market, the 1080p resolution renders the source material impressively on large screens. The DTS-HD Master Audio track elevates the viewing experience with its pristine sound quality, providing a resoundingly clear and engaging auditory landscape that is leagues ahead of previous lossy versions on VHS and LaserDisc.

Special features in this Blu-ray release are abundant and high in quality. Nearly all content from the Special Collector’s Edition DVD, produced by Charles de Lauzirika, is included, maintaining the high standard set by previous editions. Notably, the animated menus have been retained to enhance the user experience. One key addition is the 29-minute featurette titled "Best of the Best: Inside the Real Top Gun," which was previously only available as a Best Buy-exclusive bonus disc. Unfortunately, extensive photo galleries from the SCE DVD have not been carried over, implying a minor letdown that might necessitate holding onto Disc Two of the DVD for hardcore fans.

Reviewing a film like "Top Gun" isn't easy. Most everyone, particularly those who frequent movie and Blu-ray websites, has formed an opinion on it. As a 20+ year-old movie, there isn’t much new to say about its content. Yet experiencing this Blu-ray edition reaffirms why it remains a beloved classic. The impressive audio and comprehensive bonus material make this package highly recommended for both new viewers and long-time fans.