Conceiving the perfect Hollywood sequel is a risky business. Filmmakers must add new elements to the original storyline, while being careful not to upset the formula that attracted attention to the film in the first place. One way of achieving this is through compelling storylines and real-life stunts, rather than CGI magic. Can these elements come together in the much talked about sequel to the classic 1980s action flick Top Gun? The jury is out.
Tom Cruise, the film’s handsome protagonist, is 30 years older now and the original film’s leading lady, Kelly McGillis, appears to have fallen victim to Hollywood’s preference to cast young female leads to appear alongside ageing male action heroes.
There is no doubt Cruise has the ability to deliver, as evidenced in his latest gravity-defying stunt in Mission Impossible 5: Rogue Nation. But if we had a wish list for a new Top Gun film it would be topped by requirements for a good plot, substance to the storyline and, perhaps, a return to the mainstream for Ms McGillis.
