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Somehow, we halfway through the 2020s. Reflecting on the pictures that have shaped this era, surprisingly, a sequel to a classic ’80s film stands out amongst the finest films that have come out this decade.
Top Gun: Maverick proves that some things never change — people love to see a good Tom Cruise action movie. Fans of the 1986 original were also reunited with the pilot and his former nemesis, Iceman (Val Kilmer). Tragically, this production marked Kilmer’s final on-screen appearance before his death in 2025.
Nevertheless, the film transcended mere nostalgia. The new movie’s action-packed sequences and new ensemble cast, which included actors Miles Teller and Glen Powell, can stand on its own to viewers new to the franchise.
Why has Top Gun Maverick been rated the best film of the 2020s thus far?
(Image: Scott Garfield)
Top Gun: Maverick as the highest-ranking picture of the decade, based on Rotten Tomatoes’ metrics. The summer release proved both a critical triumph and box office sensation.
Without revealing too much for those yet to watch, the movie picks up with Maverick’s return to the Top Gun training school. The now-decorated pilot must reconcile with his past whilst preparing a fresh cohort of Top Gun graduates, including his late best friend’s son, for a dangerous operation.
Within Rotten Tomatoes’ current all-time rankings, the film sits in 20th place — the top-rated film across the past six years, according to the review aggregation website.
It ranks 18 spots higher than Sinners (2025), which swept the Oscars this year. Leading the rankings are The Godfather, Seven Samurai, and Parasite in the top three spots.
According to Rotten Tomatoes, film critics largely said: “Top Gun: Maverick pulls off a feat even trickier than a 4G inverted dive, delivering a long-belated sequel that surpasses its predecessor in wildly entertaining style.”
Meanwhile, the verdict of everyday cinemagoers’ verdict says: “If you loved the original — or enjoy some good old-school action — you need to speed your way to a screening of Top Gun: Maverick.
“They can still make ’em like they used to,” noted Metro.
Where to watch Top Gun: Maverick
This action-packed blockbuster delivers two hours of pure entertainment, and better still, it won’t cost you a penny.
The movie available to stream without charge on Channel 4, and can also be rented or purchased through services including Prime Video, Apple TV and Sky.
