Top Gun Maverick: Reasons Why Tom Cruise’s Performance Was Oscar-Worthy
Tom Cruise’s performance as Air Force Captain Pete “Maverick” Mitchell in Top Gun: Maverick was worth a standing ovation. After 35 years, he has done justice to the much-beloved classic. From his exemplary physical transformation to the more advanced stunts, Cruise’s love for perfection and dedication to his craft brought Maverick fully to life once again. Here is a look at some of the different aspects of the actor’s performance that make his performance Oscar-worthy.
Tom Cruise’s Physical Transformation
Tom Cruise has always been a fitness enthusiast, and his recent physical transformation for Top Gun: Maverick is undeniable. At 57 years old, Cruise looks as fit and vigorous as ever. He took part in a dedicated exercise routine and diet plan to turn back the clock and play the iconic character of Maverick. His transformation is all the more remarkable when you consider that his physical task was to fly fighter jets with full G force and manoeuvre them skillfully.
His Iconic Fighter Pilot Style
The iconic image of Maverick in his fighter bomber jacket, helmet, and dark aviator sunglasses has been burned into the minds of his fans since Cruise first appeared in the original Top Gun film in 1986. It is striking to see Cruise still look so similar in his fighter pilot costume in Maverick even after 35 years. He stayed true to the original character, playing Maverick again in a whole new light.
His Backstory and Character Development
Cruise is a master at creating well-rounded characters, fleshing out each individual’s story and how that person evolves from the beginning of the film till the end. His portrayal of Maverick was no exception in Maverick; his performance was layered and full of depth. In the movie, Maverick is revealed to be a troubled character who struggles with his deceased father’s legacy. Moreover, he has never gotten over the death of his best friend, Goose. Cruise successfully manages to capture these emotions and externalize this part of Maverick’s story.
Maverick’s Stunning Stuntwork and Aerobatics
When one talks about Maverick, his flying escapades are one of the most iconic things that come to mind. Cruise underwent rigorous flight training in order to perfect the art of flying a fighter jet, which involved hours and hours of practice in real aircraft, flying at supersonic speed and pulling inverted rolls. Upon watching the film, the audience can expect an incredible display of aerial stunts and stuntsmanship carried out by Cruise and the talented stunt teams who worked in tandem with him.
His Authentic Relationship with His Co-Stars
One of the key elements that make Maverick a great film is Tom Cruise’s portrayal of the Iconic Maverick. His chemistry with co-stars Miles Teller (Goose’s son) and Jennifer Connelly (who plays Maverick’s love interest) was electric throughout the movie. The facial expressions, body language and dialogue he shared with his costars are all authentic, making their relationship very believable.
His Powerful Presence
When it comes to Tom Cruise’s performance, one cannot ignore the power he brings to his role. From the moment he appears on screen, he commands attention and leaves a lasting impression. We are always enthralled by the way he fluidly moves from one scene to the other and how he captivates the audience with his gaze and mannerisms. He might not be the loudest or most forceful character on screen, but Cruise is able to project a confidence and authority that speaks volumes.
The incredible combination of all these qualities make Tom Cruise’s performance as Maverick Oscar-worthy. If you’re wondering why Tom Cruise became one of the most badass movie stars of all time, his standout performance inTop Gun: Maverick is the perfect evidence. To sum it up, the movie clearly demonstrates why Cruise remains an iconic figure in Hollywood – he performs with heart and soul, creating an unforgettable experience on screen that truly stands the test of time.
