The latest film featuring Tom Cruise – or, to give him his full name, Thomas Cruise Mapother IV (really!) – has proved a massive hit. As this column is written, it is estimated that total takings from cinema showings globally could soon hit a whopping $1 billion without too much trouble.
It is not really any surprise that the movie, Top Gun: Maverick (rated 12A) is filling the coffers of its makers. Real-life action stunts involving US fighter jets, plus dramatic scenery, an aircraft carrier, beautiful cinematography, good music and a strong story combine to hit pretty much every spot that filmgoers might want.
And, after all that has happened in the last few years, the time has been just right for a feel-good movie that would sweep weary watchers up into its story.