4K Bluray Review: Top Gun [Steelbook]

Synopsis: ​A heart-pounding combination of action, music and incredible aerial photography helped make Top Gun the blockbuster hit. of 1986. Top Gun takes a look at the danger and excitement that awaits every pilot at the Navy's prestigious fighter weapons school. Tom Cruise is superb as Lt. Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, a daring young flyer who's out to become the best. And Kelly McGillis sizzles as the civilian instructor who teaches Maverick a few things you can't learn in a classroom.

Main Feature: Okay, don't judge me, but I have never been the biggest fan of "Top Gun." Even when I had the opportunity to request a new 4K release (in steelbook!), I was hesitant. Still, I've grown fond of steelbook releases, and always enjoy quality UHD presentation. "Top Gun" is top notch in those two areas, even if my opinion has not improved much. I will say this much: the 4K release certainly helps. Even though I have a basic 5.1 sound setup (front-central sound bar, subwoofer and basic rear channel surround sound), the audio for "Top Gun" was made for this type of stuff. And the visuals really fly through in UHD. It is too bad I still find the film to be an excess in machismo. But, hey--there was a lot about the 80s that prided excess. It's not a bad movie by any stretch. Cruise shines in the role, as does it's supporting cast. I just have never gotten the widespread appeal for it.

Bonus Features: Some quality new extras are included in the full set (found on the standard Blu that is included in the set). One new interview with Cruise and producer Jerry Bruckheimer feels more promotional for the upcoming sequel (esp. since that film's director also talks). But a six-part retrospective of the 30 years of the film's legacy is examined. Only Cruise and Bruckheimer are part of those. Archival extras carrying over from past releases are also there. A digital copy code is also slipped into the package. 

Final Call: I find myself right in the danger zone whenever I openly criticize "Top Gun," but even I will admit I found the need to watch it in UHD.

Grade: B-