Welcome to Vox Populi, where Columba College ākonga cast a critical eye over pop culture happenings. This week, Isabella Cameron (Year 11) leads us into the danger zone to discuss the merits of 'Top Gun' (1986).

Tony Scott's Top Gun is one of the most iconic pieces of media to come out of the Cold War era. In a time of mass uncertainty about nuclear weapons and with the West waging a war on Russia, Top Gun provided a sense of security in uncertain times — and with its jaw-dropping sequel Top Gun: Maverick flying into theatres this year, it's an eerie echo of the circumstances in which the original was released.

Top Gun follows a group of men competing to be the best fighter pilots the United States Navy can offer. In spite of the testosterone-soaked imagery, it skillfully manages to portray the protagonists’ vulnerability without judgement. We're introduced to Maverick and Goose as they tussle with a MiG-28, showcasing a high-stakes profession that promotes brotherhood and forges lifelong bonds.

Another such scene - known simply as 'the beach scene' - has reverberated throughout pop culture. Four fighter pilots square off in a volleyball match, diving and high-fiving, sweat glistening on their skin. While short, it shows Maverick and Goose completely in sync with one another, reinforcing their relationship and rendering the film’s climax all the more heart-wrenching.

Top Gun has become one of my favourite films of all time, not only because of the cool fighter jets and conventionally attractive men adorning the screen — I truly believe that the unapologetic story of the importance of men being able to express emotional vulnerability has a lot of relevance today, and that the palatable way it tells said story is one that well-deserves its accolades.