Top Gun: Maverick

Over three decades after graduating from Top Gun, Captain Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell has become a test pilot. Despite his achievements, Maverick struggles with insubordination, preventing him from earning a higher rank in the Navy.

Admiral Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky frequently steps in to shield Maverick from disciplinary actions due to his rebellious nature. Iceman's current role as head of the U.S. Pacific Fleet allows him to protect his old friend from Rear Admiral Chester 'Hammer' Cain.

Maverick undertakes a dangerous test flight for the hypersonic project known as 'Darkstar.' He modifies the target speed from Mach 9 to Mach 10, pushing the prototype beyond its limits, which leads to the aircraft's loss and jeopardizes his career.

Thanks to Iceman’s influence, Maverick is assigned to teach at the prestigious Top Gun school despite Rear Admiral Cain's assertion against piloted aircraft. This assignment comes after his significant setback with the Darkstar project.

At Top Gun, Maverick is tasked with training a group of elite graduates for a perilous mission. He engages in dogfights with his students to earn their respect, proving his skills and leadership abilities despite initial skepticism.

Tension arises between Lieutenant Jake 'Hangman' Seresin and Lieutenant Bradley 'Rooster' Bradshaw, the son of Maverick's late best friend. Their conflict stems from differing flying styles, with Rooster resentful of Maverick for his father's tragic fate.

Maverick rekindles his romance with former girlfriend Penny Benjamin, sharing a heartfelt moment about a promise made to Rooster's mother regarding her son's future as a pilot. Their relationship deepens as Maverick supports Rooster’s journey.

In a private conversation, Iceman, who is battling terminal cancer, offers wisdom to Maverick, encouraging him to let go of burdens from the past. His advice proves critical as Maverick navigates the complexities of mentorship and loss.

After a training accident results in an aircraft being lost, Maverick is dismissed from his instructor role by Air Boss Vice Admiral Beau 'Cyclone' Simpson. Cyclone modifies the mission parameters, creating more risks for the pilots.

Taking matters into his own hands, Maverick conducts an unauthorized flight to demonstrate the feasibility of the original mission parameters. This bold act convinces Cyclone to reinstate him as the mission’s team leader.

Maverick leads the team on the mission to destroy an underground uranium enrichment site. He flies alongside Rooster, Phoenix, and their supporting crew as they strike their targets amidst heavy enemy fire.

As the team receives orders to return, Rooster defies them to locate Maverick who is believed to be lost. This act of defiance showcases his growth, as he battles both the enemy and his own fear during the rescue.

Maverick and Rooster manage to reunite after a chaotic aerial confrontation, commandeering an F-14 from a damaged airfield to escape. Together, they confront pursuing enemy fighters, showcasing their newly forged bond.

During a critical standoff, Rooster runs out of ammunition, but at the last moment, Hangman intervenes to destroy an attacking Su-57. Their teamwork underscores their growth and unity against seemingly insurmountable odds.

In the aftermath, Rooster helps Maverick restore his beloved P-51 Mustang. This moment is marked by deep reflection on their mission's success accompanied by a sentimental look at a photograph of Rooster’s father with Maverick.