The Red Band Project

Have you lost that lovin' feeling?

There are some movies that are just the epitome of cool. Growing up in the 1980s, I don’t think anyone could escape the hype, phenomenon, or force that was Top Gun. It was a movie that defined the “high concept” blockbuster and helped to establish what we know today as the summer blockbuster season.

Call it fate, timing, or just plain luck . . . but Top Gun ushered in a pop culture phenomenon that still influences to this day. During the year in which Top Gun was released I can remember loads of people wanting to emulate things in the movie. Aviator sunglasses, bomber jackets, Top Gun hats/shirts, and everything in between . . . everyone wanted to imitate this movie.

But what really makes Top Gun so great? Well, even though there’s only two real action sequences (the MIG sequences at the beginning at the end of the film), I’d have to say that the aerial dogfighting action was pretty cool to see at the time. Watching the behind the scenes featurette, all the aerial scenes they specifically shot for the film. Another thing I think that makes Top Gun so memorable is just sheer amount of “cool” that emanates from the film. You have Maverick and Ice Man–the two best pilots in the US Navy going up against each other, each one brash and both carrying that sense of “cool.” Then you also have the fighter pilot profession itself. Just the thought of flying those fighter jets is cool in and of itself.

I think a lot of the popularity for Top Gun has has to do with nostalgia and it’s place in pop culture. The movie is so memorable that just by mentioning the title alone a number of quotes spring to mind. Take a look at some of these classic lines:

“I feel the need . . . the need for speed.”

“I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.”

“Slider, you stink.”

“We’re going ballistic Mav.”

“Great balls of fire.”

“I’ll hit the brakes and he’ll fly right by.”

and of course, who could forget the best of the best:

“You, you’re still dangerous . . . you can be my wingman anytime.”

“Bullshit, you can be mine.”

The reason why I’m waxing poetically about Top Gun is because Consolidated Theatres is bringing the film back to theaters for one night only this coming Monday, May 16 (on the 25th anniversary of its release no less). Yes, we’ll be able to experience the classic we all know and love in the theater! If you have any love for this film then you definitely will want to make sure you see it. There will be two screenings of Top Gun at the Consolidated Ward 16 Theatres on Monday, May 16 at 7:15p and 10:00p. Bring the kids and set the DVR to record the season finale of Hawaii 5-0, because this is an event you won’t want to miss. Purchase your tickets by logging on to ConsolidatedTheatres.com or by going to Fandango

Win Passes to Top Gun

If you’re interested in potentially winning free tickets to this special presentation of Top Gun, 94.7 KUMU-FM is giving away passes. Check out their website for more details.