Top Gun Movies: Release Order
The Top Gun franchise follows the legendary Navy pilot Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell through his career at the elite Fighter Weapons School. The 1986 original became a cultural phenomenon with its thrilling aerial sequences, iconic soundtrack, and portrayal of cocky fighter pilots pushing their limits, making it one of the most influential military action films of all time.
This watch list presents both films in release order, which matches the chronological timeline. The long-awaited 2022 sequel picks up thirty-six years later, with Maverick returning to Top Gun as an instructor to train a new generation of pilots, including the son of his late best friend. The phenomenal sequel was met with even greater critical acclaim than the original.
Linear Timeline: Release Order = Story Order
Top Gun
Lieutenant Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell and his co-pilot 'Goose' are accepted into an elite Navy fighter pilot training school. As Maverick pushes himself to become the best, he must confront personal challenges that threaten his flying career.
Top Gun: Maverick
After more than thirty years as a Navy aviator, Pete "Maverick" Mitchell is called upon to train a new generation of TOP GUN pilots for an unprecedented and dangerous mission.
Other Film Series
Dragonheart
A fantasy franchise about the bonds between dragons and humans, centered on themes of honor, sacrifice, and the Old Code of chivalry.
Michael Mann
A collection of standalone crime thrillers and character studies from the acclaimed director known for his distinctive visual style and procedural authenticity.
Quentin Tarantino
Influential American filmmaker known for nonlinear storytelling, stylized violence, pop culture references, and memorable dialogue across ten acclaimed directorial works.
Rurouni Kenshin
Acclaimed live-action Japanese film series following a legendary swordsman seeking redemption in Meiji-era Japan, renowned for masterful action choreography.
The Crusades
Films depicting the medieval religious wars between Christian and Muslim forces for control of the Holy Land from 1095 to 1291.
The Joker
A collection of major live-action Joker portrayals across different Batman film universes.