Top Gun: Maverick_2022
<script>
  <scene>
    <character>TOP GUN: MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Based on Characters Created by</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Jim Cash &amp; Jack Epps, Jr. Story by Peter Craig and Justin Marks Screenplay by Ehren Kruger and Eric Warren Singer and Christopher McQuarrie Paramount Pictures</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CARRIER DECK - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>FIGHTER JETS roll on the silhouetted deck as FLIGHT CREWS work their technical ballet. Men and women devoted to detail and duty, preparing their warriors for the arena. All the while, MUSIC builds over OPENING TITLES as jets LAUNCH into the sky, afterburners blazing, roaring like thunder...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A3 EXT. CARRIER ELEVATOR - DAWN A3</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>AN F-18 silhouetted against the morning sky, rising to the main deck. A HELMET edges into frame, bearing red white and blue stripes along with the name: MAVERICK. BOOM UP TO REVEAL the man holding the helmet, his back to us, his head turned slightly. Something troubles him. Deeply.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Talk to me, Goose...</dialogue>
    <character>MAN'S VOICE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Captain Mitchell.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And as the pilot turns we MATCH CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A12 INT. AIRSTREAM - DAY A12</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>PETE "MAVERICK" MITCHELL opens his eyes from a deep sleep. He sits up, takes a deep breath, taking in the humble trailer he calls home. For those of us who know Maverick from long ago, we're left to wonder how he ended up here. He stands, moves to the kitchenette to start the coffee machine and, along with, his day.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGAR HOME - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON the door of Mav's trailer as he exits, holding a plate with his breakfast and a cup of joe. Pull back with him TO REVEAL: The Airstream occupies a space one could only describe as the ultimate bachelor pad - motorcycles, a vintage car, a workbench covered with memories of a life dedicated to flight and, the centerpiece: A World War Two-era P-51 MUSTANG. If we suspected for a moment that Maverick had ended up on his ass, we were sorely mistaken. TIME CUT: As Maverick eats his breakfast at a small table across from an empty chair. CONTINUED: Maverick finishes his breakfast, stands, pats the P-51 with affection as he passes her on his way to the workbench. REVEAL: CLOSE SHOTS of Mav's surroundings (as he dresses in b.g.): TROPHIES and AIRSPEED RECORDS, PHOTOS of a younger Maverick, with ICEMAN, at Ice's wedding, with GOOSE, CAROLE and their young son BRADLEY. Mav with that same boy as a TEEN. He opens a cabinet lined with jackets. He pulls one out, wrapped in plastic, saved for special occasions, it seems. He rips the plastic off revealing patch laden leather that's been around a long, long time. Mav passes a calendar, the date marked in red:</scene_description>
    <character>MACH 9 TODAY</character>
    <dialogue>He walks past a COLLECTION OF MOTORCYCLES, a beaten up old Pepsi machine, stops at one bike under a tarp. Revealing a familiar '86 KAWASAKI NINJA.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>CLOSE ON: Aviators and a set of keys by a helmet.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>He takes the keys and sunglasses, leaves the helmet...</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HANGAR - DESERT ROAD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>VROOOM. Maverick screams away from the hangar, spiraling dust, taking his machine to the limit.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CHINA LAKE TEST FACILITY - CALIFORNIA - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A maximum security military facility. At a gatehouse checkpoint, two ARMED UNIFORMS see him coming, open the gate, wave him through without stopping. They watch him go.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TEST HANGAR - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A prototype high-hypersonic jet, THE DARKSTAR, dominates the hangar. It is unlike any machine we've ever seen before - itching to scream across the heavens. All it needs is a pilot. Mav strides in, ready to ride it. He stops, sees: Several ENGINEERS (JACK, SIMON &amp; MATTHEW) and TECHS, strangely motionless. Something is amiss. All sense of momentum stops. An amiable, salty Warrant Officer, BERNIE "HONDO" COLEMAN (35), grimaces.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey. What is it?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>It's over Mav. Three years of our lives, down the drain.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>We've been ordered to stand down. They're scrapping her.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Says who?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hondo looks to SIMON, the meek engineer who balks.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Well go on.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Maverick)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>His girlfriend works at the Pentagon-</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>She swore me to secrecy-</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <dialogue>Just tell us.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>They say we fell short. The contract threshold is Mach Ten.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Mach ten. That's Mach ten two months from now. Today's test point is Mach Nine.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Well, that's not good enough for someone at the Pentagon.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick focuses on Simon.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Who?</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <dialogue>Just say who it is.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Spit it out Simon.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <dialogue>Go.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Admiral Cain.</dialogue>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>So it really is over.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Of course. The Drone Ranger. He wants our budget for his unmanned program...</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Well he's not gonna get it. Not today.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Mav, Cain's coming down now. He's on his way to shut us down personally.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>He's not here yet.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(re: plane)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>They want Mach ten, let's give it to them. Get her ready to run up at eighteen-thirty.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>The test wasn't 'til nineteen hundred.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Well, that was before the weather changed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The team looks out at the perfectly calm, clear sky.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Gotta get out early if we want to beat this storm.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>That's... blue sky up there, Mav.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, but dark blue. Ominous.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <parenthetical>(catching on)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ah. Yeah. Downright menacing.</dialogue>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>Scary.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (3)</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Guys, the weather's fine, I've been checking all d-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Matthew gives Simon a shoulder tap.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Oh... OOOOOH.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. SUIT-UP ROOM - TEST FACILITY - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>State of the art. Maverick runs a treadmill. He wears a HIGH- TECH OXYGEN MASK and heart monitor. Deep, steady breathing.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Don't do this, Mav.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(Mav keeps running)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Mav, for God's sake, you don't need to do this. She hasn't passed mach eight point five. She's months away from ten. There's no way this ends well.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But he doesn't. He just keeps running. A17 TIME CUT: Mav finishes dressing in a pressure suit. A17</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, you know, Mike called. He's out in Reno with all those billionaires racing their P-51s. He's making money hand over fist fixing warbirds, test flying 'em, too. He needs guys who know their stuff. We'd be rolling in it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Maverick isn't listening.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA17 INT. LONG CORRIDOR - DAY AA17</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>DOZENS OF DARKSTAR TEAM MEMBERS - a mix of MEN and WOMEN - CIVILIANS and MILITARY alike, mill about in a long corridor, talking quietly, waiting. A door opens OS and everyone falls silent. All eyes focus on: MAVERICK, clad in his space suit, carrying his oxygen. We follow him from behind, watching as the team parts to let him pass. Hondo falls in step with him. We move with them in profile. AA17 CONTINUED: AA17</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Now remember. Contact threshold is Mach ten. Not point-one, not point- two. Mach Ten. That should keep the program alive.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off Mav's nod)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I don't like that look, Mav.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Only one I got.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And off Hondo's sigh we CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B17 EXT. TEST HANGAR - NIGHT B17</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The Darkstar is rolled from the hangar into tarmac position.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. DARKSTAR HANGAR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Mav's gloved hand stroking the nose of the aircraft. WITH A TECH carrying his O2 unit, Mav does a walk-around inspection of the prototype jet. The engineers look on.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DARKSTAR COCKPIT - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick STRAPS IN the pilot's chair. TECHS attach cables and hoses, secure Mav to his seat, give his harness a big yank. He fist bumps both of them before they step down. Hondo remains.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Now remember. Contact threshold is Mach ten. Not point-one, not point- two. Mach Ten. That should keep the program alive.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off Mav's nod)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I don't like that look, Mav.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Only one I got.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The canopy LOWERS, drowning him out. Mav gives a thumbs-up. Hondo glares. Gives a reluctant thumbs-up back and hops down. Maverick takes a deep breath, a moment of apprehension as it sinks in what he's about to do.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Okay.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A20 INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT - MOMENTS LATER A20</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hondo now has a headset on, amongst Engineers and Techs watching satellite feeds, cockpit cameras, etc.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Control, this is Darkstar. How do you read?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. COCKPIT/PLANE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Darkstar, Control loud and clear, how me?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Loud and clear. Ready for APU start.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>You know Mav, you don't have to do this.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I know what happens to the program if I don't.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know what happens to everyone else if I don't.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Everyone loses their job if I don't.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>They'll scrap the whole program if I don't.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Alright sweetheart, one last ride.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Cleared APU start.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav presses the APU START button and the left engine whines.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Good start.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Ready left engine start.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav flips switch and the left engine whines.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Good start.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Ready for right engine start.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav flips switch and the right engine whines.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Good start. Darkstar is ready for taxi.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A21 INT. CONTROL ROOM A21</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hondo turns to his engineers.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Thumbs for taxi?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The engineers at their consoles give a thumbs up.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>We are ready for taxi.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Taxi-ing.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to plane)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Alright, sweetheart. Let's go for a ride.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>With a PRIMAL ROAR, exhaust cones spit plumes of BLUE FIRE.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT/EXT. COCKPIT - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav is on the radio.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Tower, this is Darkstar, we are taxing with information Alpha.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav is taxi-ing.</scene_description>
    <character>TOWER</character>
    <dialogue>Darkstar, you're cleared taxi. Runway two-one. Winds two-one-zero at ten.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Engine temperatures are looking good.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Control concurs.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Batteries holding at ninety-five percent.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Cabin pressure looks good.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Defog set.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Hey Hondo, make a note, right main feels a little stiff.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Copy. We'll make a note.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>I like the new LEDs on the Mach gauge. Good job.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Glad to hear you like it.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Checking CG control.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Showing good checks.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>CG at nineteen percent.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT</character>
    <dialogue>Fuel temp's are looking good.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Control concurs.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Hydrogen pressure at thirty-five PSI.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Fuel cell's warming up. Looks like good H2 and oxygen flow.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Adjusting helmet temp. Adjusting Suit temp.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Check data on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Recorder's on.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Good data.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Nav points check good.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>IFF on. Squawking one-four-zero- two.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Engine oil pressure is looking good.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Ready for H2 pressure relief check.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Switch on. Switch off.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Good check.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Control's ready for sweeps.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav moves the stick accordingly.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Forward. Aft. Left. Right. Paddle switch on. Off.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Good sweeps.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Control are you ready for flight control test?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Control's ready for test.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Test complete.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Control shows good test.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>I've got a flight control air data caution.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (3)</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, we're looking into it.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It looks like we lost a probe. Press reset.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick presses reset button.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Looks like good reset. Cleared to continue.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Take-off pre-checks complete. Seat armed.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Control concurs.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Tower, Darkstar is ready for take- off. Requesting unrestricted climb to six-zero-zero and above.</dialogue>
    <character>TOWER (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Darkstar the runway's yours. Unrestricted climb to flight level six-zero-zero and above is approved. Contact Joshua on three- six-zero point two.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Cleared take-off six-zero-zero and above, switching.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Joshua, Darkstar checking in.</dialogue>
    <character>JOSHUA (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Darkstar, you're cleared Isabella and Owens MOAs, test area 25-0-8 above flight level six-zero-zero. Your test frequency is two-four-one point one-two-five.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Roger. Darkstar, is cleared Isabella, Owens, 25-0-8 above flight level six-zero-zero. Switching to test.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav sets the frequency for 241.125. The Darkstar rolls out, lining up on the tarmac. RUMBLING... CONTINUED: (4)</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Everyone go for takeoff, starting with engine.</dialogue>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Engine. Go.</dialogue>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>Thermals. Go.</dialogue>
    <character>FUEL</character>
    <dialogue>Fuel. Go.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <dialogue>Electric. Go.</dialogue>
    <character>SURFACES</character>
    <dialogue>Control surfaces. Go.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Darkstar, Control. Do you feel the need?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Darkstar, Control. How do you feel?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Mav, we're a go. How do you feel?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>I feel the need...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick pushes the throttle forward.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick, Cain just pulled up to the gate. We got a choice here, we can stop this right now. How do you feel?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick thinks this over.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>I feel the need...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick pushes the throttle forward. Afterburners kick in. Maverick takes off.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. GATEHOUSE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A government sedan arrives. The checkpoint guard meets it:</scene_description>
    <character>CAIN'S AIDE</character>
    <dialogue>Rear Admiral Chester Cain.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: The guard glances at the OMINOUS SILHOUETTE in the back seat and waves the sedan through. Just then, a distant rumbling catches their attention, growing louder, shaking the foundations of the guardhouse. REAR ADMIRAL CHESTER "HAMMER" CAIN, a cold-eyed 2-Star Admiral emerges from the back of his sedan as: DARKSTAR SUDDENLY RIPS OVERHEAD WITH A DEAFENING ROAR. Cain's driver recoils, hit by a gale force DUST BLAST. Cain himself just closes his steely eyes.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DARKSTAR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The ground swiftly recedes behind Mav as he heads skyward...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - MINUTES LATER - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hondo and the crew of Engineers and Techs sit with headsets, watching satellite feeds, cockpit cameras, telemetry, etc.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Darkstar, you are cleared above six- zero-zero. Increase to Mach 3.5.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Copy, Mach 3.5.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A26 INT. DARKSTAR COCKPIT A26</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to plane)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Just a walk in the park for you, though, isn't it, girl?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick pushes the throttle.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B26 INT. MISSION CONTROL B26</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cain walks in. Engineers stand, struggle to act as if nothing's amiss.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Admiral. Uh, just in time, sir-</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>I'm early. And so are you. Care to explain?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>B26 CONTINUED: B26 Awkward looks all around. Hondo never takes his eyes off of Cain as he reaches for the radio.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <parenthetical>(into radio)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Uh Mav, I have Admiral Cain here... Uh, how's that storm-front?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COCKPIT - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>My bad. You guys were right. Looks like it's breaking up. Guess I'm buying the beers tonight.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>Tell him to land.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>He's already at 60,000 feet, sir. On the test profile for Mach nine-</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>Now.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Transitioning to scramjet.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to plane)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>All right, angel, let your hair down.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT./INT. DARKSTAR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav hits switches: main engines SHUT DOWN. An eerie silence, then a THUNDEROUS PEAL as SCRAMJET engine bursts to life. Darkstar ROCKETS into the upper atmosphere, where rapidly thinning air gives way to the blackness of space.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The Engineers are rapt, monitoring with nervous tension...</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, Mav, Admiral Cain is asking--</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>Ordering-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Ordering that we bring her down-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Pi- -ive -grees -ood -lpha-</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>This is where we've had trouble with comms. Earth's curvature...</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A30 INT. DARKSTAR - NIGHT A30</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick is, in fact, simulating the breakup verbally:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>-assing -ach ive- oint-four at, ninety- -ousan- -eet. -ach six.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Mav, you have orders to land. Mav, do you read me? Mav?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav says nothing, his half-smile turning to pure focus.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B30 INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT B30</stage_direction>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Cain)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Sir, I apologize-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to himself)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Come on sweetheart, let's show 'em what you've got.</dialogue>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>He's at Mach seven, pushing eight. Flight data?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Simon, the meek engineer checks a monitor to reveal a trickle of code unreadable to the untrained eye - gaining speed.</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Receiving. Data is good.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT./INT. DARKSTAR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Thin atmosphere screams past Darkstar's prow, SHEETING INTO FLAME from the concussive friction. Maverick's in the zone: CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Temperature's climbing. Responses still stable. We're feeling good.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He's hitting switches, making minute adjustments. Exertion. Sweat. Airspeed gauges spin upward...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>Mach eight point eight. Eight- nine... Mach nine.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They share looks of concern. Everyone is sweating. They are into the unknown now... Hondo looks at the flight data monitor, a steady flow now.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>He's the fastest man alive.</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>This changes nothing. You know why I'm here.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COCKPIT - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Just a little push.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And he gently nudges the stick.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Great work, Mav. Bring it on home.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav stows his final test card, looks to the now-blank board. He shuts eyes, trusts his feel, and whispers:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Talk to me, Goose...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And he gently nudges the stick.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A33 EXT. SATELLITE ALTITUDE - DAY A33</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Looking down from space, that Darkstar leaves a contrail in a wide arch across the western half of the U.S.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Amidst the celebration, one engineer now notices: CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Mach nine-one... nine-two...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cain steps to the screen with just a hint of a smile.</scene_description>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>You got balls there, stick-jockey. I'll give you that.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COCKPIT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>But Mav's all resolve. He tenses the throttle, JAMS it all the way forward. Gauges roll past Mach 9.3... 9.4...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Mach nine-three... nine-four. Passing one hundred thirty thousand. Approaching high- hypersonic.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Nine point five.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: One of the tech's screen flashes a SURFACE TEMP HOT warning.'</scene_description>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>Surface temps rising.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <dialogue>We're watching it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hondo looks at Cain who stares back.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Did anyone offer you a coffee?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COCKPIT - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Scramjet engine SCREAMING like a banshee, PLASMA ripping off the nose, casting a purple glow over the cockpit. The speed gauge keeps rolling and reaches Mach 10. Mav grits his teeth.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>ALMOST... THERE, GIRL. SHOW 'EM</dialogue>
    <character>WHAT YOU CAN DO.</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Wind shield hot caution. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Come on sweetheart, just a little more.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Come on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick looks down at the warning lights.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(yells)</parenthetical>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>MATTHEW (SENIOR)</character>
    <dialogue>Nine-nine... Jesus.</dialogue>
    <character>JACK (JADED)</character>
    <dialogue>Mach TEN.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The team CHEERS. Hondo notes the data recorder exploding with new data. A gusher. Cain realizes what this means. The geeky engineer pumps a fist:</scene_description>
    <character>SIMON (MEEK)</character>
    <dialogue>Put THAT in your Pentagon budget.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(catching Cain's stare)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Uh... Sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Hondo stares at his monitor. He knows his friend well.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Arright. You made your point, Mav. Now bring it home.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COCKPIT - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The speed gauge needle trembles ever so higher...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's it, just a little. 10.1.</dialogue>
    <character>10.1... 10.2...</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK</dialogue>
    <scene_description>You see? I knew you could do it. But now Darkstar JOLTS VIOLENTLY. WARNING LIGHTS pepper the console, ALARMS buzzing in his ear. He swallows hard: BOOM. Maverick is slammed against the canopy.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MISSION CONTROL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>All screens go DARK. The stream of flight data vanishes.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO (INTO RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Static. Cain doesn't say anything. He doesn't need to.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRUCK STOP - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A country highway. Some trucks blow past; a tumbleweed rolls.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A46 INT. TRUCK STOP - DAWN A46</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A bell jingles. One by one, PATRONS take in a sight at the door in awe. REVEAL: Maverick, dazed, parched, helmet in one hand, stick in the other. Patrons stare. A WAITRESS at the counter pours water for a dumbstruck CUSTOMER and his YOUNG SON eating ice cream.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Excuse me, miss?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick motions towards the ice water she just poured. She hands it to him. He drinks it. All of it.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Where am I?</dialogue>
    <character>KID WITH ICE CREAM</character>
    <dialogue>Earth.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>NOISE O.S. Helicopters. The sound of his fate.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TEST HANGAR - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A Navy "Rescue Hawk" HH-60 helicopter lands. Maverick is escorted into the waiting embrace of TWO MPs. Maverick glances back at the heli as it flies away. He sighs, walks away with the MPs to face the music.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B47 INT. LONG CORRIDOR - DAY B47</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav enters, followed by the MPs. He stops. REVEAL: B47 CONTINUED: B47 Hondo and the same Darkstar team members Maverick left behind are here to greet him. The emotions are mixed; they are proud of what they've all achieved, but unsure of the cost was worth it. He moves on. They part for him, offering muted thanks, some words of encouragement. Some can't even look him in the eye. It is a solemn moment of farewell. The passing of a legend. As he passes the last of them, he stops and looks back. (Note: We stay in the wide so as not to undercut the moment later in Cain's office)</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Y'all built one helluva a plane.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bittersweet smiles from the team. Yes they did. Mavericks walks on, ready to face the music. Out on his terms.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGAR OFFICE - DAY - MOMENTS LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>SILENCE. The SPs flank the door. Cain sits behind a desk, turns page after page of a file. Mav waits, sweating in his flight suit, gently thumbing the stick in his hand.</scene_description>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <parenthetical>(looking at file)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Maverick...</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(sighs)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Thirty plus years of service... combat medals... citations... the only man to shoot down three enemy aircraft in the last forty years... ALT: distinguished...distinguished.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>After a long wait, Cain closes the file, stares.</scene_description>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>Yet you can't get a promotion, you won't retire and, despite your best efforts, you refuse to die. You should be a two-star admiral by now. If not a senator. Yet here you are... Captain. Why is that?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>One of life's mysteries, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>This isn't a joke. I asked you a question.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: He stares, waits. Maverick's smile flickers ever so slightly. This is the end of the line. Beat:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm where I belong... sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>Navy doesn't see it that way. Not anymore.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cain stands. Stares out the window at the future.</scene_description>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>These planes you've been testing, Captain, one day they won't need pilots at all. Pilots that need to sleep, eat, take a piss... Pilots that can disobey. All you did was buy time for those men out there.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(turns to Maverick)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The future is coming. And you're not in it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Without taking his eyes off Maverick:</scene_description>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>Escort this man off the base... take to him to his quarters... wait with him while he packs his gear...</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(turns away)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I want him on the road to North Island within the hour.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Beat.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>North Island... sir?</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>Call came in with impeccable timing. Right when I was driving here to ground your ass once and for all. It galls me to say it, but for reasons known only to the almighty and your guardian angel... you've been called back to Top Gun.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cain turns, sits back at the desk. Even Maverick is confused.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir-</dialogue>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>You are dismissed, Captain.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2) Maverick stands, hesitates, can't help himself:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>On behalf of the team...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He plants the DARKSTAR'S STICK on the desk.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Mach 10 capable, sir. As promised.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cain never looks up. Maverick turns to leave, stopping on:</scene_description>
    <character>CAIN</character>
    <dialogue>The end is inevitable, Maverick. Your kind is headed for extinction.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir... But not today. ALT: Maybe so, but not today, Sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And with a sly grin, Maverick is gone.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. POINT LOMA - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>AERIAL RIPS over Point Loma revealing the North Island NAS, as the TOP GUN ANTHEM theme kicks in.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. NAVAL AIR STATION NORTH ISLAND, CORONADO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick rips down a taxiway as an F-18 Super Hornet takes off beyond. He watches it soar. Can't believe he's back.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A51 EXT. AIRBASE ENTRANCE A51</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav rides along an entry drive, stopping to look up at: An old F-14 TOMCAT displayed on a museum pedestal like a relic from a bygone era. CLOSE ON: The faded name just under the canopy:</scene_description>
    <character>LT. PETE "MAVERICK" MITCHELL</character>
    <dialogue>Under that are the silhouettes of three planes, all X'd out.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Maverick drives on.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. OFFICERS' BUILDING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick enters the North Island NAS Headquarters.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HALLWAY - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Photos of faces we might recognize: ICEMAN, SLIDER and, of course, GOOSE. For anyone unfamiliar, it's obvious there is story here - Glory and ghosts. We pass a photo of ICEMAN AND MAVERICK, settle on a prominent photo of: A stern-jawed ADMIRAL TOM KAZANSKY aka ICEMAN. "Commander of the Pacific Fleet". REVEAL: Maverick, staring at the past.</scene_description>
    <character>ADMIRAL'S AIDE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Captain Mitchell... Captain Mitchell.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick snaps from his thoughts.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. OFFICERS' BOARDROOM - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A MONITOR with an image that means little to us now but will come to dominate our thoughts. A HANDSOME, SQUARE-JAWED MAN (40s) steps in front of it. This is:</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>At ease. Captain Pete "Maverick" Mitchell. Your reputation precedes you.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Thank you, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>It wasn't a compliment. Admiral Beau Simpson. I'm the Airboss. I believe you know Admiral Bates.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: ADMIRAL BATES (55). An affable, brilliant two-star, otherwise known as:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Warlock, Sir. I must admit, I wasn't expecting an invitation back.</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>They're called orders, Maverick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>His tone is friendly enough, but the meaning is clear. No one is exactly excited to see Maverick back. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>You two have something in common. Cyclone here was first in his class back in '88.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Actually, sir, I finished second. Just want to manage expectations.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Awkward silence. Cyclone nods to Warlock who takes a remote and summons images on the monitors on the walls. Warlock clicks through SURVEILLANCE IMAGES of INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS at the base of a forbidding valley.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>The target is an unsanctioned uranium enrichment plant, constructed in violation of a unilateral NATO treaty. The uranium produced there represents a direct threat to our allies in the region. The Pentagon has tasked us with assembling a strike team and taking it out before it becomes fully operational.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick steps closer, studying the screens as Warlock points to corresponding satellite and archival images, along with a profile of the run:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>The plant sits in a recess at the end of this valley. Said valley is GPS jammed and defended by an extensive radar array, serving a limited number of fifth generation fighters which, in turn, are backed up by a plentiful reserve of surplus aircraft; F-16s and even a few old F-14s.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Seems we're not the only ones holding on to old relics.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick lets that go. He has to.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>What's your read, Captain?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Normally, this would be a cake-walk for the F-35's stealth. But the GPS jamming negates that.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2) The surface-to-air threat necessitates a low level, laser- guided strike, tailor made for the F-18. I figure two precision bombs minimum. Makes it four planes, flying in pairs. (studies topography) That's one helluva steep climb out, exposing you to all the surface-to- air missiles. Survive that, it's a dogfight all the way home.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>All requirements for which you have real-world experience.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Not in the same mission, sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Beat. Maverick realizes.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Somebody's not coming back from this.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Can it be done or not?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>How soon until the plant becomes operational?</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Three weeks. Maybe less.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick realizes...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it's a been a while since I've flown an F-18... And I'm not sure who I'd trust to fly the other three.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Beat.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>I think you misunderstand, Captain.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir?</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>We don't want you to fly it. We want you to teach it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (3) The words just hang there.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Teach... sir...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Warlock hits a button and TWELVE PILOT I.D. PHOTOS appear:</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>We've recalled twelve Top Gun graduates from their squadrons, all top of their class. You will narrow this pool down to six - the best of the best. They will fly the mission.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick's eyes lock on one face in particular. The stoic face of BRADLEY "ROOSTER" BRADSHAW.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Is there a problem, Captain?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You know there is... sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <parenthetical>(glances at screen)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Bradley Bradshaw. AKA Rooster. I understand you flew with his old man... What was his call sign?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Goose. Sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Tragic what happened.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Warlock is uncomfortable with this:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Captain Mitchell was cleared of any wrongdoing. Goose's death was an accident.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>That how you see it, Captain?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(points to Bradshaw)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Is that how Goose's son sees it?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick has had about enough of this shit, but soldiers on.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>With all due respect, sir. I'm not a teacher.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (4)</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>You were a Top Gun instructor before.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, that was thirty years ago. I lasted two months. This is not where I belong.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Let me be perfectly blunt. You weren't our first choice. You weren't even on the list. But someone put your name in the SECDEF's ear. We all know who.</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Captain Mitchell has real-world experience akin to every segment of this operation.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>What Captain Mitchell has is a friend in the Pacific Fleet.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Maverick)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're here at the request of Admiral Kazansky. Iceman is a man I deeply admire. He seems to think you still have something to offer the Navy. What that is, I can't imagine. You don't have to take the job, but I should make it clear: This is your last post, Captain. You fly for Top Gun or you don't fly for the Navy. Ever again.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick looks at the picture of Rooster one more time.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. "THE HARD DECK" BAR - DUSK - ESTABLISHING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>An old yacht club converted into a ramshackle shrine to wild nights and Naval history, beneath a big sign ("The Hard Deck") and a small one ("Help Wanted").</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HARD DECK - BAR AREA - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Quiet. A FEW PATRONS waiting for the evening to kick off. Maverick, in his civvies, sits at the bar, his back to the door. In the corner, he sees TWO YOUNG PILOTS playing darts: JAVY "COYOTE" MACHADO and JAKE "HANGMAN" SERESIN. CONTINUED: Hangman hits three bulls-eyes in a row, smiles, doesn't crow, takes money from Coyote before making brief eye contact with Maverick - no idea who he's looking at. CLOSE ON: Mav's phone buzzes on the bar. The icon photo is that of ICEMAN, in Admiral's uniform. ICE: That went well. Mav grudgingly responds. M: The kid's not ready for this mission. ICE: No one is. That's why you're here. M: You could have warned me. ICE: Would you have come? Maverick's thumbs hover, unsure how to reply. Beat. ICE: Sorry I couldn't be there. M: Where were you? Beat. ICE: Think it over. He sighs, places his phone on the bar.</scene_description>
    <character>VOICE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, he walks into mine.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He looks up at THE BARTENDER: PENNY BENJAMIN has a striking face with kind eyes that have seen it all - so much that nothing really ever gets her down.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Penny.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <parenthetical>(sighs)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Pete.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What are you doing here?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I should ask you the same thing.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Long story.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I doubt that. Who'd you piss off this time?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Another Admiral. Speaking of - how's your father?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Still mad at you. Retired. I moved back to be closer. And I have to admit it was the one place I thought for sure I'd never run into you.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm just as surprised as you are. How long have you been here?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I bought this place three years a go... You must be in a lotta trouble. No way you'd come back here willingly.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off his look)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, you'll sort it out.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>No, this is... I think this is it.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Come on. You've been saying that for thirty years. You said it after my father chased you out my bedroom window. You said it again when they busted you for that high speed pass. Next thing I know you're off to Bosnia. Then Iraq. Both times. I don't even remember the charges before they shipped you off to the desert, test-flying God knows what. You get yourself in trouble, Iceman makes a call, you're back in the air.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Penny, this is different.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (3)</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Trust me. No matter how improbable it seems right now, somehow you'll be back in a fighter plane with your tail on fire.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Penny-</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Too late.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You were about to ask me what time I get off.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>No, I was gonna-</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Too late.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He just looks at her.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Don't gimme that.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Give you what?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>That look.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not giving you a look. I swear.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>It's the only look you got. And this is not happening.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not asking.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You never ask. That way I never get to say no. Well, this time it's no.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Penny.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (4)</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>No.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Fine.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Fine.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Pause.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You look good.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She reaches over and rings a bell, CLANG-CLANG-CLANG-CLANG. The entire bar CHEERS. AN AVIATOR slaps him on the back:</scene_description>
    <character>FERG</character>
    <dialogue>Much appreciated, pal.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What I miss?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny points to a "House Rules" sign:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(reads)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Disrespect a lady, the Navy, or put your cell phone on my bar...</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You buy a round.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>For everyone?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm afraid rules are rules. You're lucky it's early.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>WHAT DO WE HAVE HERE?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick follows Hangman's eyeline to the door. The first of the night's REVELERS enter, occupying tables, circling the bar, giving the joint a little life. Among them are THREE PILOTS: REUBEN "PAYBACK" FLOYD, MICKEY "FANBOY" GARCIA, and NATASHA "PHOENIX" TRACE. CONTINUED: (5) Maverick watches them over to the pool table with interest.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A56 INT. HARD DECK - POOL TABLE - DUSK A56</stage_direction>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Here I thought we were special, Coyote. Turns out the invite went to anyone... Keepin' it tight, I see, Phoenix.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix smiles, annoyed but patient. As she approaches:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Fellas, this here's Bagman.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Hangman.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Whatever.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Payback and Fanboy)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're looking at the only Naval Aviator on active duty with a confirmed air-to-air kill.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman demurs with a bit of false modesty.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Mind you, the other guy was in a museum piece from the Korean War.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman's smile fades. Coyote jumps in to defend.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>Cold war.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Same century.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Not this one.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman looks at Coyote. "Thanks for nothing."</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Phoenix)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Who're your friends?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Payback, Fanboy, that's Coyote.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(nodding)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Who's he?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A56 CONTINUED: A56</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>Who's who?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix motions, Coyote sees a guy with glasses sitting in the corner - human wallpaper: LT ROBERT "BOB" FLOYD.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>When did you come in?</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>I've been here the whole time.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Beat. The other share a look. Bob would have to be invisible for no one to have noticed. And that's exactly what Bob is.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>The man's a stealth pilot. Literally.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Weapons Systems Officer, actually.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>With no sense of humor.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman walks away toward the bar as:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>What do they call you?</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Bob.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>No, your call sign.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>...Bob.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Awkward pause. Phoenix studies him.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>You're my new back-seater. Sent from Lemoore.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Looks like it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Long pause. No telling what Phoenix thinks about this until: She grabs a pool cue.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Nine ball, Bob. Rack 'em.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B56 INT. HARD DECK - BAR AREA - NIGHT B56</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hangman approaches with an empty bottle, gets Penny's attention.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I'll have six more on the old timer.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick sighs, then:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>BRADSHAW. Is that you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick freezes. Over his shoulder, BRADLEY BRADSHAW, aka ROOSTER, enter. Phoenix strides over with open arms:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>This is how I find out you're stateside?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I thought I'd surprise you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He goes to hug her. She feints a punch to his gut, he flinches.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Guess I surprised you back.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <parenthetical>(recovering)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's good to see you.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Good to see you, too.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick watches with renewed interest as the pilots settle around the pool table everyone sizing everyone up. All of them are good. They all want to know who's best. Penny hands Hangman his beers.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Much obliged, Pops.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He heads back to the other pilots. More people are entering the bar, the night kicking off. Penny sees Maverick watching Rooster. B56 CONTINUED: B56</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Did you see Goose's son?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off Maverick's nod)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Not gonna say hello?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav decides he should. Just as he stands, Rooster turns and looks at Mav, as if he knew he was there all along. They stare for a beat, then Rooster turns back to Phoenix. Penny sees this entire thing.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>How's about ringing me out before the evening rush.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick hands her his card. Penny heads off with it to close him out.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C56 INT. HARD DECK - POOL AREA - DUSK C56</stage_direction>
    <character>ON THE PILOTS:</character>
    <dialogue>HANGMAN</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bradshaw. As I live and breathe. He hands Rooster a beer.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You look good, Hangman.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I am good, Rooster. I'm very good.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix and Rooster share a glance.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>So anybody know what this "special detachment's" all about?</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>A mission's a mission. That don't confront me. What I wanna know is who's team leader? And which'a y'all have what it takes to follow me?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman winks at Rooster, needling him.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Hangman, the only place you'll ever lead anyone is an early grave.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>C56 CONTINUED: C56 Hangman looks up from his next shot, stands and walks to Rooster, face-to-face.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Anyone follows you is just gonna... run outta fuel. But then that's you all over, ain't it... Rooster? Snug on your perch, waitin' for juuuuust the right moment. That never comes.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cold beat. The song changes.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I love this song.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He walks off. Rooster exhales as Phoenix steps up, unimpressed by the high-chesting. Rooster never takes his eyes off of Hangman as:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>He hasn't changed.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>No, he sure hasn't.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANGLE ON: Hangman stepping to the jukebox, smiles and makes a selection. JOHNNY CASH' COCAINE BLUES kicks off. The energy in the room shifts. It's Hangman's party. Mav makes note of this, shifts his eyes back to Rooster and Phoenix, who are slightly annoyed that it's too loud to talk now.</scene_description>
    <character>ON THE PILOTS:</character>
    <dialogue>FANBOY</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Check it out. More patches. At the door: a second wave of PILOTS enter. More hot shots.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Omaha, Halo, Harvard, Yale... Shit, that's Fritz.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>A regular who's-who. Everyone a top graduate.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>'The hell kinda mission is this?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>C56 CONTINUED: (2) C56</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>That's not the question you should be asking.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off their looks)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Everybody here is the best there is. Who the hell are they gonna get to teach us?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And a look darkens Rooster's face as he realizes...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D56 INT. HARD DECK - BAR AREA - NIGHT D56</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Penny drops Mav's card on the bar.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>It's been declined.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You're kidding me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As Maverick sighs, reaches into his pocket: CLOSE ON: A hand grabs a power cord and yanks it from the wall. All of the music in the bar stops. The crowd groans, catcalls, whistles. CLOSE ON: Hands pull up a bench, open the lid of a piano. WIDE SHOT of the crowd, all heads turning as someone starts pounding on the piano. At the bar, Maverick turns and sees Rooster at the piano, playing away, the reaction in the room skeptical. In the back, Phoenix smiles, nods to Payback and Fanboy to follow her. They do, unsure of what's going on. Hangman stands up from his next shot at the pool table, left alone with Coyote. The party is no longer his. CLOSE ON: Rooster banging away on the keys, finishing the intro. He starts singing. Phoenix joins in, motions for Fanboy and Payback to do the same. It takes a moment, but people in the bar get into it. At the bar, Maverick holds up all the money he's got.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>That won't cover it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>D56 CONTINUED: D56</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(sees the bill, winces)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I can come back tomorrow.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <parenthetical>(shaking her head)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm afraid rules are rules.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny rings the bell, this time like a five alarm fire. Everyone cheers. Whatever that sound is, they love it.</scene_description>
    <character>CROWD</character>
    <dialogue>OVERBOAAAAAAAARD.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A hand grabs Maverick's shoulder. He turns to see Hangman, backed by Coyote, Payback and Fanboy. Maverick looks back to Penny.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Great to see you, Mav.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She waves him away. Maverick is dragged back, hoisted bodily into the air, carried to the door as the crowd chants:</scene_description>
    <character>CROWD</character>
    <dialogue>OVERBOARD. OVERBOARD.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>At the piano, Rooster plays on, his friends singing. His back to the action, he doesn't see Maverick being hauled out.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. REAR OF HARD DECK - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The "Over-board" CHANT builds. The back door BLOWS OPEN and Hangman and Payback force Maverick off back steps into the sand. A raucous CHEER erupts inside.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks for the beers. Come back anytime.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The pilots all laugh and head back in.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HARD DECK - BAR AREA - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hangman high fives Coyote, greets the other pilots. But his smile fades when the music at the piano changes; the first strains of Great Balls of Fire. The crowd is into it now. Rooster has them in his hand. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You shake my nerves and you rattle my brains/that kinda love drives a man insane...</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HARD DECK - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick's headed for his bike, brushing off the sand. He hears the song, turns and looks back at the bar. MAV's POV. Through the windows, he sees Rooster at the piano.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HARD DECK BAR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Your kind, so fine/Got to tell this world that you're-</dialogue>
    <character>EVERYONE IN THE JOINT</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT./INT. HARD DECK - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick sees a ghost. From this angle, the kid is a dead ringer for Goose, just as gawky and gangly, loving life. Penny clocks Maverick outside. She looks to Rooster, back to Mav. She knows something of this moment's significance.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TOP GUN TARMAC - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>MUSIC kicks in as jets arrive. Sleek F-18 (Echoes) and doubles (Foxtrots)... Maverick stands in the path of an arriving vehicle. Hondo steps out. As they walk:</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>I was out. Inches from a clean getaway.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks for coming.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Halfway to Reno. A lady waiting for me, too.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I need at least one person on my side here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>She's an acrobat. Very flexible.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm never gonna hear the end of this, am I?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>No you are not. 'The hell they got you doing here, anyway?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Teaching.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hondo looks at him. Maverick nods, for real.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Teaching what? How to recycle perfectly good airplanes?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(Maverick shrugs)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>At least we won't be here long.</dialogue>
    <character>ADMIRAL'S AIDE (PRE-LAP)</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TOP GUN DETACHMENT HANGAR - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>All snap to attention. Cyclone watches from the wings as Warlock steps to a podium and addresses: Rooster, Phoenix, Hangman, Coyote, Bob, Payback and Fanboy along with pilots we met briefly in the bar: LT BRIGHAM "HARVARD" LENNOX, LT LOGAN "YALE" LEE, LT CALLIE "HALO" BASSETT and LT NEIL "OMAHA" VIKANDER, along with BILLY "FRITZ" AVALONE.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Good morning. Take your seats.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(they do)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm Admiral Bates, NAWDC Commander. Welcome to your special training detachment. You're all Top Gun graduates, the elite, best of the best. That was yesterday. You've all spent your careers flying close air support for troops on the ground with little to no air-to-air threat.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Phoenix share a look and sit up as Warlock reveals the image of a new enemy fighter. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>The enemy's new fifth generation fighter has leveled the playing field. Details are few, but you can be sure we no longer possess the technological advantage. Success, now more than ever, comes down to the man or woman in the box.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman winks at Phoenix, who just rolls her eyes.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>This mission requires two F-18 Echo solo pilots and two Foxtrot dual- seat teams. Half of you will make the cut, half will remain in reserve... One of you will be named Mission Leader.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Hangman share a glance. It's on.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Your instructor is a Top Gun graduate with real-world experience in every mission aspect you will be expected to master. His exploits are legendary and he is considered to be one of the finest pilots this program has ever produced.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Cyclone shakes his head. Jesus.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>What he has to teach you may very well mean the difference between life and death. I give you Captain Pete Mitchell, call sign: Maverick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Rooster, hearing the name, his expression icy. Phoenix shoots him a concerned glance. She understands the significance of this moment. Or thinks she does. Maverick steps to the podium and the other pilots recognize him immediately. They all squirm, Hangman especially. Maverick looks past Rooster to Hangman and nods as if to say "that's right." He raises a thick bound MANUAL:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Good morning. The F-18 NATOPS. It contains everything there is to know about your aircraft. What's the load limit of the F-18?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>7.5Gs. Section Four, Chapter Five.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Max airspeed?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Mach 1.8. Section Two, Chapter One.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Meanwhile, Hondo has sidled up next to Cyclone, whispering:</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Sir. Bernie Coleman. They call me Hondo. I work with Maverick. But don't hold it against me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hondo smiles. Cyclone doesn't.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>I'll stand somewhere else.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As he slinks away: Maverick points to Coyote:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Lift limit?</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>34 Alpha.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Fanboy)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Maximum role rate.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Two hundred and twenty five degrees per second.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Payback)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Maximum afterburner.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>42,000 pounds of thrust.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Max rate of climb, everyone.</dialogue>
    <character>CLASS</character>
    <dialogue>Forty-five thousand feet per minute.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (3)</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>So you know the manual/book. Inside and out. Along with the so called limits of your aircraft.</dialogue>
    <character>ALL TRAINEES BUT ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir/Damn straight, sir/etc.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He DROPS his copy of the manual in the trash. The trainees react. Cyclone glowers, throws a look to Warlock.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>... So does your enemy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Warlock nods. He'll deal with it. Cyclone walks out. This is not lost on Maverick or Hondo.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <parenthetical>(sotto)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And we're off.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What the enemy doesn't know is you. Your limits. I intend to find them. Test them. Push beyond... Flying faster than the speed of sound with one split second to make a life or death decision requires a level of trust, feel, instinct that doesn't exist in any manual.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And for the first time, Maverick and Rooster make eye contact.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Today we're going to start with what you only think you know. Show me what you're made of.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES ABOVE DESERT - SORTIE 1 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>An explosion of sound as \[TWO F-18S ROAR PAST\].</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK/ROOSTER/PAYBACK F-18S - INTERCUT - SORTIE 1</stage_direction>
    <character>\[ROOSTER FLIES FORMATION WITH P/FANBOY ON HIS REAR-RIGHT\].</character>
    <dialogue>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Good morning, aviators. This is your Captain speaking. Welcome to basic fighter maneuvers.</dialogue>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>FANBOY</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Morning, Sir. They immediately search the sky when they hear Mav. Rooster looks down at his radar: a wide cone shape emanating from the nose of a jet icon, sweeping an empty sky.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A77 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - SORTIE 1 - (OLD SC73) A77</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As briefed the arena today is a ten mile radius. The hard deck is five thousand feet. ALT for arena: practice area The exercise is dog-fighting and the rules are simple. Working as a team, you have to shoot me down. Or else.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B77 INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - SORTIE 1 - (OLD SC73) B77</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>PAYBACK</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Or else what, Sir?</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Or else I shoot back.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C77 INT. READY ROOM - (OLD SC71) C77</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>An officer's lounge, complete with bar. A speaker on one wall broadcasts Maverick's radio like an afternoon football game. The trainees not flying the first sortie are listening to the exercise over a radio on the bar. (They no longer enter).</scene_description>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>If I shoot either one of you down, you both lose. So cover your wingman. C77 CONTINUED: C77</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Who does this guy think he is?</dialogue>
    <character>HALO</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, you think you can take him, Hangman?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman smiles.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D77 INT. PAYBACK/FANBOY/ROOSTER/MAV F-18S - SORTIE 1 - (OLD SC73)</stage_direction>
    <character>D77</character>
    <dialogue>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Pilot masks are off. Rooster cranes his neck warily in every direction.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Fanboy, you see him?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Fanboy cranes his neck to look around and looks down at the radar.</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>No, nothing yet. Nothing on radar. He must be somewhere behind us.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Two versus one? He's gotta be kidding.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <parenthetical>(egging him on)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know, right.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>He is not kidding, Payback.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, what say we put some skin in the game?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What do you have in mind?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Payback, don't do it-</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>How about this, Sir? First one to get shot down does two hundred pushups.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>D77 CONTINUED: D77</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's a lotta pushups.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>They don't call it an exercise for nothing, Sir.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Guys.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>All right. That's a deal. You ready to go? Fight's on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Masks go on. Maverick looks up. REVEAL: \[MAV IS SNAKING THROUGH VALLEY BELOW THEM.\], looking up at their exposed bellies.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Let's grip and rip.</dialogue>
    <character>\[MAV YANKS BACK ON THE STICK AND SPLITS THEIR FORMATION</character>
    <dialogue>THROUGH THE MIDDLE.\]</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Shit.</dialogue>
    <character>\[ROOSTER CLIMBS UPWARDS LEFT.\]</character>
    <dialogue>PAYBACK</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Woah.</scene_description>
    <character>\[PAYBACK JERKS FULL ROLL TO THE RIGHT, THEN DOWN RIGHT.\]</character>
    <dialogue>Fanboy's head cracks against the canopy, mask half on, almost losing helmet.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Where is he? Where is he?</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>I can't see him.</dialogue>
    <character>\[MAVERICK PIROUETTES TO THE RIGHT INSTEAD OF FLIP AND DIVES</character>
    <dialogue>AFTER PAYBACK.\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>\[ROOSTER BREAKS WIDE LEFT\] and, for a beat, we think he's running.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Payback and Fanboy are sitting ducks with Maverick closing.</dialogue>
    <character>\[P/FANBOY DO A HARD PULL TO THE RIGHT, THEN INTO SCISSORS</character>
    <dialogue>LEFT/RIGHT.\]</dialogue>
    <scene_description>D77 CONTINUED: (2) D77</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick's turning on us. He's right behind us, going for position. ALT: Maverick's on us, he's on our tail. ALT: Shit, he's on us, he's on us.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, where the hell are you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick is close to a firing position on Payback, seconds away.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>PAYBACK, BREAK RIGHT ON MY MARK.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <character>3-2-1 BREAK RIGHT.</character>
    <dialogue>\[PAYBACK BREAKS RIGHT AS ROOSTER FLIES IN FRONT OF MAVERICK</dialogue>
    <dialogue>BREAKING LEFT.\], replacing Payback as Maverick's target.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <parenthetical>(to self)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That's right. Come and get me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster flies with everything he has, furiously fighting. \[ROOSTER DIVES DOWN THEN PULLS UP, TRYING TO GET AROUND.\]</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Nice, saved your wingman.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster hustles, pulls a \[HYBERMECH TO LEFT\].</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Woah. Good move Rooster.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick pulls a \[HYBERMECH TO LEFT\].</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>But you sacrificed yourself. Switching to guns.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <parenthetical>(insert directions)</parenthetical>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Ok, got it.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>E77 INT.READY ROOM - DAY E77</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The pilots are hearing all of this. Hangman loves it. E77 CONTINUED: E77 CLOSE ON Phoenix.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>F77 INT. PAYBACK/FANBOY F-18 - SORTIE 1 - (OLD SCA75) F77</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Our first taste of dog fighting shows how physically demanding air combat is. \[THE JETS RAPIDLY WEAVE IN AND OUT.\] Payback is coming around, trying to get guns on Maverick. \[PAYBACK DOES A HARD RIGHT TURN\]. Maverick, meanwhile is close on Rooster. Rooster is working hard, fighting for his life.</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <parenthetical>(Insert directions)</parenthetical>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Hang in there Rooster, hang in there, we're coming for you.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>G77 INT. F-18S - INTERCUT - SORTIE 1 - (OLD SCC75) G77</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster hears a loud shrill alarm. He angrily rips off his oxygen.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>That's a guns kill on Rooster. You're dead. Knock it off.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <parenthetical>(pissed)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Copy. Knock it off.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Payback and Fanboy realize they are too late.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Shit. Copy. Knock it off.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Head back to base, Rooster. See Hondo about your pushups.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - HANGAR - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The class waits in silence. Phoenix stares out the window, Hangman paces. VOICE O.S.:</scene_description>
    <character>VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>Fritz, Harvard, Yale... You're up.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: They nod to one another, psyche themselves up. Payback and Fanboy look out of the window. They take in the lonely sight of Rooster doing pushups.</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>It should be us down there.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix joins them.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>But it's not. And now you know a little something about Rooster.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TARMAC - UNDER JETS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Fritz, Harvard and Yale step outside and find Rooster sweating through pushups as Hondo paces, keeping count..</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>One hundred and ten... one hundred and eleven...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Fritz, Harvard and Yale share a smile.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>You best get on up there. Don't keep the man waiting.</dialogue>
    <character>HARVARD</character>
    <dialogue>Hold that tarmac down 'til we get back, son.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Harvard takes a selfie. Rooster just keeps pushing. CLOSE ON Fritz, Harvard and Yale, laughing.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A79 INT/EXT. MAVERICK'S F-18 / H-YALE'S F-18 - SORTIE 1A MONTAGE</stage_direction>
    <character>A79</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick's jet soars into frame and instantly locks target on Harvard and Yale's jet.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TARMAC - UNDER JETS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Fritz, Harvard and Yale doing push-ups, sweating.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>One hundred and twenty, one twenty one...</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster is sitting. Phoenix comes in at the other side of the room.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, you good?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster takes a long time to reply.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <character>VOICE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Phoenix, Bob, Hangman. Your turn.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>With him?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix and Hangman share a look. Neither one wants to fly with the other.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>With her?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES ABOVE DESERT - SORTIE 2 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Two more majestic F-18s roar towards camera.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGMAN'S F-18/INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>HANGMAN \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Say Phoenix, don't you think your \* WSO should have a call-sign? \*</scene_description>
    <character>BOB \*</character>
    <dialogue>I'm right here you know. \*</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN \*</character>
    <dialogue>Oh shit, I forgot. Howsabout we \* tell people Bob stands for \* something? Other than Robert I \* mean. \*</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX \*</character>
    <dialogue>Don't take the bait, Bob. Hangman's \* just projecting. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: He's hates his call-sign. Ever \* since Rooster gave it to him. \*</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN \*</character>
    <dialogue>I like to think I've grown into it. \* Now let's see, Bob. B.O.B... \*</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX \*</character>
    <dialogue>Know why Rooster calls him Hangman, \* Bob? \*</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN \*</character>
    <dialogue>Wait, wait. I know. Baby On Board. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>\[MAVERICK'S JET SOARS RIGHT BETWEEN THEM\], loud and shocking.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <parenthetical>(flinches)</parenthetical>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES - DAY - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>\[THE TWO JETS ARE FORCED TO SPREAD AS AN F-18 ROCKETS PAST 16</character>
    <dialogue>MILES A MINUTE ON A "KNIFE EDGE", CANOPY-TO-CANOPY\].</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Greetings, Aviators. Let's get to work.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18/INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>They listen as they start to put their masks on.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 / PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Fight's on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They put their masks on. \[MAVERICK RIPS INTO A HARD, NOSE- HIGH, RIGHT-HAND TURN.\]</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Phoenix, let's take this guy out. Break right.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Breaking right.</dialogue>
    <character>\[PHOENIX BREAKS RIGHT AND HANGMAN CLIMBS.\]</character>
    <dialogue>HANGMAN</dialogue>
    <scene_description>I'm going vertical.</scene_description>
    <character>\[BOB IN HARD BANK RIGHT, IS LOOKING LEFT.\]</character>
    <dialogue>BOB</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Where's he going?</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's a mistake. Cover your wingman, Hangman. ALT: That's a mistake. Never leave your wingman, Hangman.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>He called you a man, Phoenix. You gonna take that?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>So long as he doesn't call you a man.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Talk to me Bob. Where's Maverick?</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Jesus. His nose is already coming around.</dialogue>
    <character>\[P/BOB ARE IN HARD LEFT/RIGHT TO EVADE MAVERICK.\]</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX</dialogue>
    <scene_description>What?</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>He's coming in for position. He's on us, he's on us.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The class listens. We focus on Rooster.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER (WHISPERS)</character>
    <dialogue>Watch your back, Fee.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster curses under his breath.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES ABOVE DESERT - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>As \[MAVERICK FALLS IN BEHIND PHOENIX AND BOB.\]</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Keep him busy, Phoenix. I'm on my way.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>\[P/BOB DO A SPLIT "S" TO THE RIGHT.\]</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He's not gonna catch us. Hang on Bob.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>ALT: What? ALT: Do it. I'm ready.</dialogue>
    <character>\[PHOENIX MAKES A FIERCE SPLIT-S MANEUVER AND ROLLS RIGHT. BOB</character>
    <dialogue>HANDLES IT LIKE A PRO. SHE TRIES TO PULL UNDERNEATH</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK.\]</character>
    <dialogue>BOB</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Yeah, Phoenix, yeah. Good move, good move.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to self)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Woah. Nice move Phoenix. I like your style.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES - DAY - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>\[MAVERICK TURNS LEFT AND DOWN TO GET BACK TO THE OFFENSIVE ON</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX AND BOB.\]</dialogue>
    <character>\[MAVERICK IS BACK ON P/BOB'S 6 O'CLOCK.\]</character>
    <dialogue>BOB</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He's on us, he's on us again. He's still on us. Hangman, Hangman.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>\[P/BOB BANK HARD LEFT/RIGHT TO EVADE MAVERICK.\]</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Where are you Hangman? CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>\[HANGMAN APPEARS BEHIND PHOENIX AND MAVERICK.\]</character>
    <dialogue>HANGMAN</dialogue>
    <scene_description>I'm right here.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Get him Hangman, get him, get him off us.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bob struggles to look back and keep a visual on Maverick.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>But dammit I can't shoot him without shooting you.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to himself)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Sorry Phoenix.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Phoenix)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Now break right. RIGHT.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>BREAKING RIGHT.</dialogue>
    <character>\[PHOENIX BREAKS RIGHT\].</character>
    <dialogue>BOB</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(looking back)</parenthetical>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Which puts them right in Maverick's gunsights. \[MAV "FIRES."\]</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Wrong move, Phoenix. That's a kill. Knock it off.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>Phoenix punches her canopy.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Copy, knock it off. Thanks Hangman.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry, Phoenix. That was my fault.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>No, you made the right call. Hangman sold us out.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: ALT: No, no, it's on me. You made the right call.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGMAN'S F-18/MAVERICK'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <character>\[HANGMAN IN LOOSE ESCHELON RIGHT.\]</character>
    <dialogue>HANGMAN</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Sir, permission to continue.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Now I know why they call you Hangman. Permission granted. You ready?</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I'll give you a head start.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Generous. Fight's on.</dialogue>
    <character>\[MAVERICK BREAKS LEFT INTO DITCH LEFT, SWEEP LEFT, DITCH</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES/INT. HANGMAN'S F-18/MAVERICK'S F-18 - SORTIE 2</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav does everything he can to shake Hangman, but nothing is working. At first it's exciting, a challenge. But it isn't long before Maverick is feeling the heat.</scene_description>
    <character>\[INTO THE RIGHT SCISSORS.\]</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>You're good. I can't shake you. ALT: Damn this kid's good. Can't shake him. ALT: I can't shake you, damm you're good, I'll give you that. The physical punishment of evasive maneuvering mounts, taking it's toll as the pursuit stretches on. Maverick is giving it all he's got. Hangman, on the other hand:</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Got it bad, got it bad, got it bad... I'm hot for teacher...</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>You're good. But you gave up your wingman.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: And just when we think Maverick has reached his breaking point, \[MAVERICK GOES SUPERSONIC AND CLIMBS. HANGMAN PURSUES. MAVERICK FLIES DIRECTLY INTO THE SUN.\] Maverick looks over his shoulder so he can fly into the sun while keeping an eye on Hangman.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>And you lost your set of eyes.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The strain is intense, as is the light. Hangman closes his eyes, flying blind after Maverick, holding his nerve.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Phoenix, I can't see him. How close am I?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix and Bob are masks-off, on the way back to base.</scene_description>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX (ON RADIO)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>I'm dead, dickhead.</scene_description>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>BOB (ON RADIO)</dialogue>
    <scene_description>See you in the afterlife, Bagman. Hangman holds his nerve as long as he can, until:</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>God DAMMIT.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>\[HANGMAN BREAKS RIGHT, LEVELS OUT\], opens his eyes, looking around for Maverick. He hears the tone. REVEAL: Maverick is behind him. Hangman punches his canopy, defeated. \[MAV PULLS UP ALONGSIDE, SWEATING, WINDED.\]</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's a kill.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Copy kill.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>\[HANGMAN BANKS AWAY HOME\]. As Maverick watches him go, he pulls off his oxygen mask and shakes off the tension. That was a close one. Too close.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TARMAC - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>As Phoenix, Bob and Hangman give their two hundred. Hondo listens on radio.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>You're smoked there, Omaha. Head on home. Next sortie. Come and get it.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES - SERIES OF SHOTS - SORTIE 3 - DOGFIGHTING MONTAGE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Two more JETS SOAR, going nose-low to tangle with Maverick... as he puts a jet right in his pipper.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's guns on you Fritz.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Another F-18 is targeted.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Lights out, Coyote.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Another. Harvard again.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's a kill.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Another. Halo again.</scene_description>
    <character>HALO</character>
    <dialogue>Copy kill.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Another.</scene_description>
    <character>REMAINING PILOT</character>
    <dialogue>Copy kill.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. READY ROOM</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Too far away to see who is doing the pushups. It doesn't matter. One by one they collapse, exhausted.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>All right. You've all shown me some real talent. You've also proven the very best often have the most to learn. Two of you have my eye for team leader.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The class is shattered. Demoralized. Halo, Fritz and Harvard stagger in, wasted. Hondo follows.</scene_description>
    <character>VOICE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Hangman. Rooster. Your presence is requested.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They look at one another. Rooster is surprised, but neither man is happy about the pairing. Off their confused looks:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES ABOVE DESERT - LATER - SORTIE 4 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Final sortie. Rooster and Hangman head-to-head with Maverick.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A106 INT./EXT. F18S - INTERCUT - SORTIE 4 A106</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>\[TWO F-18's IN LINE ABREAST FORMATION. ROOSTER ON THE LEFT, HANGMAN ON THE RIGHT.\] Both men are tense, eyes peeled. There's a shark in the water. And they're lunch. Rooster is looking down.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Nothing on radar. Again.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>He'll be coming low to high.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman is looking back.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I'm guessing from behind.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Or both. That was some shit you pulled on Phoenix.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I just hastened the inevitable. Besides, I paid for it, didn't I?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>That's not the point. Where the hell is he?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Right here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Hangman instinctively look back and down. A106 CONTINUED: A106 ROOSTER'S POV. He looks down to his right. Nothing. He looks down to his left and is shocked to see the tip of Maverick's wing.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B106 EXT. SKIES - DAY - SORTIE 4 B106</stage_direction>
    <character>REVEAL: \[MAVERICK IS INSIDE THEIR FORMATION, JUST UNDERNEATH</character>
    <dialogue>THEM. IN THE NEXT INSTANT, HE ROLLS AND SPLITS THEM FROM</dialogue>
    <dialogue>BELOW. hANGMAN ROLLS AWAY RIGHT. MAVERICK ROLLS OVER THE TOP OF ROOSTER, INVERTED, LOOKING DOWN AT HIM FROM ABOVE.\]</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You boys need to focus.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(at Rooster)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You ready?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Fight's on.</dialogue>
    <character>\[ROOSTER TURNS THE TABLES AND INVERTS. MAVERICK DOES THE</character>
    <dialogue>SAME\]. Their planes begin falling towards Earth, each trying to out-spiral one another \[IN A LEFT SPIRAL\].</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18/ROOSTER'S F-18 - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The Gs are intense, the world spinning, a test of endurance.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Not this time, Captain.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Show me what you got. ALT: Let's see what you've got.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Rooster has no shot. And neither does Maverick. As they continue to fall.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A107 INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - SORTIE 4 A107</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>He chases them, unable to make a shot at the two tangling airplanes. \[FROM 5000 FT IN LEFT TURN, LOOKING LEFT &amp; DOWN.\]</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>ALT: The agreed upon hard deck is five thousand feet. The actual deck is Mama Earth and you are rapidly approaching it. ALT: Hard deck is five thousand feet, Rooster.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A107 CONTINUED: A107 You're running out of room. ALT: The actual deck is the deck.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The class is on their feet, staring at the radio in shock as:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A108 INT. ROOSTER AND MAV'S F18S INTERCUT - SORTIE 4 A108</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The verbal altimeter is calling out the altitude as they plummet.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What are you gonna do Rooster? What's your move?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>What does it matter? You're gonna wash me out anyhow. ALT: You gonna wash me out?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Washing out is entirely up to you.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>That wasn't always the case, though, was it, Sir?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What's past is past, Rooster. Focus on the enemy up here.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You are the enemy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They strain as they plummet and spiral.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Well, the enemy's about to run you into the ground.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>MAVERICK'S POV - the Earth is coming up fast.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B108 INT. READY ROOM - SORTIE 4 B108</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Close on Phoenix, shocked at how personal this fight is.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>As he watches the planes plummet in a DNA-helix of a spiral. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>These guys are crazy.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>ALT: Guys, guys, pull out. ALT: Guys, guys, watch the deck. ALT: You guys just blew through the hard deck. ALT: Don't mean to interrupt but ROOSTER. YOU'RE COMING UP ON THE HARD DECK.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES - DAY - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>\[THE SPIRAL CONTINUES\], the ground coming up fast.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Everyone hears the altimeter dropping.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Both men look at their altimeters dropping rapidly.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Copy. Continue. Bail out anytime, Rooster.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I can go as low as you, sir. And that's saying something.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The world below them is spinning wildly, coming up fast. Finally \[ROOSTER AND MAVERICK BOTH HAVE TO PULL OUT, COMING DANGEROUSLY CLOSE TO THE GROUND\], maximum Gs.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <character>\[MAVERICK BANKS HARD, ROOSTER FALLING IN BEHIND HIM, BACKED</character>
    <dialogue>BY HANGMAN\]. Mav nods approvingly, sotto:</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Continue. We're still on. C'mon Bradley, nose down. Just a little lower and you have me.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A113 INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - SORTIE 4 A113</stage_direction>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, you got him. You got him. DROP DOWN AND TAKE THE SHOT. TAKE IT. TAKE IT.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - DAY - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>\[ROOSTER BANKING HARD, DANGEROUSLY CLOSE TO THE GROUND\]. How much lower can he safely go:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18/EXT. SKIES - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry, Rooster.</dialogue>
    <character>\[MAVERICK LEVELS OUT, STRIKES WITH A COBRA MANEUVER, FORCING</character>
    <dialogue>ROOSTER AND HANGMAN TO SPLIT AND OVERSHOOT HIM.\] Now Mav's instantly in chase position for a shot of his own.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster hears the tone.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's a kill.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster seethes, outwitted, but concedes the fight...</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Copy kill.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - SORTIE 4</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Everyone exhales, shares a collective look. This is next level shit, even for them.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TARMAC - ELSEWHERE - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Close on Rooster, sweating and furious as he does push-ups on the tarmac, punishing himself. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Alright. That's enough man. Rooster, that's enough.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hondo pats Rooster on the shoulder.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Tomorrow's another day.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster sits up, exhausted. Feet appear next to him. He looks up to see Phoenix above him.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>What is going on with you? You trying to get kicked out? Breaking the hard deck. Insubordination. That wasn't you up there. Talk to me. What's up?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Don't worry about it.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>I'm going on this mission. But if you get kicked out, you could leave us flying with Hangman. So what the hell was that-</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>HE PULLED MY PAPERS.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>What? Who?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick. He pulled my application to the Naval academy. He set me back four years.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix processes.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Why would he do that?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster does not answer.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hangman is staring at something on the wall.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Yo, Coyote.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: Coyote walks over and follows Hangman's eyes to a photo from the CLASS OF '86. Young Maverick, with Goose beside him.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>The man, the legend. There he is...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Hangman is looking at something else. He points to Goose.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>No, next to him. He look familiar to you?</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <parenthetical>(looking closer)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What have we here?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman reads the names under the photo: Pete "Maverick" Mitchell and his RIO "Goose" Bradshaw.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Bradshaw...</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE (PRELAP V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>The hard deck is a parameter set for the safety of my pilots, not to mention their aircraft, aircraft, need I remind you, paid for by the American taxpayer.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CYCLONE'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick stands, holding a folder in one hand. Warlock and Cyclone sit. The mood is grim.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Five thousand feet is not just a rule. It is a law. As immutable as gravity.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>The hard deck will be much lower for the mission, sir-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>It does not change without my approval and certainly not in the middle of an exercise. And that cobra maneuver of yours could have killed all three of you. I never want to see that shit again.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>What exactly do you suppose you were teaching today, Captain?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That as good as they are, they still have something to learn.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>You're talking about the best fighter pilots on the planet, Captain.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's what they've been told for their entire careers - while they've been dropping bombs from high altitude with little to no dogfighting. The parameters of this mission call for something they've never encountered-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>You have less than three weeks. You will teach them how to fly as a team and how to strike the target.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>And how to come home.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ugly pause.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>And how... to come home, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Every mission has its risks. These pilots accept that.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I don't... sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone shakes this off, collects the papers on front of him.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Every morning from this day forward, you will brief us on your instructional plans, in writing. Nothing will change without my expressed approval.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Including the hard deck, sir?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Especially the hard deck, Captain.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick steps forward and places his folder on the desk.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>What is this?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>It's a request to lower the hard deck, sir. To practice the low- level bombing run. Per the mission parameters.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE CYCLONE'S OFFICE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Warlock exit, walking in silence for a moment.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>You could learn a thing or two about timing, Captain.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They walk past Phoenix and Bob. Maverick glances back, something crossing his mind before he pushes it away.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HARD DECK - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick rides his Ninja, passing the Hard Deck. He pulls a U- turn and drives back to the bar.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HARD DECK - BAR AREA - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick strides in, stops short, a yellow Labrador, "T", approaches. As he pets it.</scene_description>
    <character>VOICE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Mav.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He looks up, seeing AMELIA (14) sitting at the empty bar, busy with her homework, out of place here.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Amelia?</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>I know. I got big. Bar opens at five.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Just came to pay off a debt.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(confused)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Is your m-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Amelia puts her pen down, shouts upstairs:</scene_description>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>MOM.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>How's your dad?</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>With his wife. In Hawaii.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny enters from a back office. She stops, surprised to see Maverick.</scene_description>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>Mav says he owes you money.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick winces, holds up a wad of cash.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Don't worry about it. You've suffered enough.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I insist.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny knows he won't budge, accepts the cash.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>One thing you can say about Captain Mitchell. He always keeps his affairs in order.</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <parenthetical>(realizing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Captain? Still?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>A highly decorated captain.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Amelia)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Finish up. We need to get the boat to the yard.</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>I can't go.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>What do you mean you can't go?</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>Test tomorrow. I have to study.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off her look)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>They only told us today.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I can't sail her alone.</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>Use the engine.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>And why are we are we taking her to the yard?</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <parenthetical>(remembering)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>To fix the engine.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I can help you.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Mav.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Penny. I'm in the Navy.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. PACIFIC OCEAN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A sailboat slams through whitecaps in high wind. Penny's at the wheel, with Mav beside her, very out of his element.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Little rougher than I was expecting.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You don't say.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Pump on the backstay and de-power the sails.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What does that mean?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You're supposed to be in the Navy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I don't sail boats, Penny. I land on them.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>We're going to flatten the sail. Sort of like raising the flaps on an airplane.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>To reduce drag.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Exactly.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>How do I do that?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny points to a handle by the wheel.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Pump that handle for me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav navigates, does as instructed, struggling to stay steady on the pitching deck.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Now pull on the outhaul.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off his look)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That green line there. No, the other one.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick navigates uneasily towards a line running under the boom, looks back to Penny.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Pull it hard.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick does as he's told. The boat begins to stabilize.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Arright, now we want to take off. What do we need?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Lift.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She nods, points to the bottom of the mast, farther away.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Pull the Cunningham.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off his look, points)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Sorry, the red line.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2) Maverick pulls the Cunningham and the boat moves faster.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Then crank that winch there, to trim the jib.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny points to a winch in the middle of the boat. Maverick moves it with more certainty, cranks the winch.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>What are you adjusting now?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Angle of attack.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Right you are.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The boat is sailing steady and fast, whitecaps spraying. Maverick smiles. Not so different than flying. Penny cranks a winch by the wheel.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Ready?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>For what?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>The afterburner.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And off Penny's smile... JUMP CUT as the spinnaker pole is extended. JUMP CUT as Maverick slams the spinnaker bag on the bow. JUMP CUTS as four lines are attached. JUMP CUT to Maverick who "jumps" the spinnaker line, using his entire body to haul the spinnaker up the mast. ANGLE ON Penny hauling in the other end of the line through a cleat to secure it. In this way Maverick and Penny work together, sharing a smile as: BOAT TO BOAT ANGLE: the spinnaker deploys, filling with wind with a dramatic CRACK and pulling the boat along even faster. BACK ON THE BOAT, hauling through the water now. Maverick navigates the deck toward Penny, the sea spraying around him. He takes a place beside her at the wheel. CONTINUED: (3)</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Take her.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick eyes the wheel, taking it as Penny steps aside. It takes some effort to hold her steady. After a beat:</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Now you're in the Navy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They share a smile and look ahead.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AB127 EXT. STREETS - DUSK AB127</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick drives Penny on his bike, her arms around his waist. We cruise with them a while. She lays her head on his shoulders, feels the wind in her hair.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AC127 EXT. PENNY'S HOUSE - DUSK AC127</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>They pull up to Penny's house. Penny climbs off the bike.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks for helping today.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Not exactly sure I helped.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Awkward silence. Neither is sure how to say goodnight. Until:</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Don't give me that look.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What look?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She turns and heads for the house.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>It's the only one I got.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny calls back over her shoulder.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Goodnight.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Night.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She turns away without a second thought. As Maverick watches her go, he exhales, starts his bike.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AD127 INT. PENNY'S HOUSE AD127</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Penny enters and closes the door behind her before leaning her back against it, letting go of her cool demeanor. She closes her eyes, listening to the sound of Mav's bike riding away, then hangs her head and exhales, not unlike Maverick.</scene_description>
    <character>AMELIA (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Mom, is that you?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to herself)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yeah, it's me, all right.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She shakes her head and exits frame as:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (PRE-LAP)</character>
    <dialogue>Time... is your greatest enemy.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A127 INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY A127</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: The main screen, pulling back from a rapidly ticking timer, counting backwards toward zero... Looming larger on the screen are schematics of:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Phase one of the mission will be a low-level ingress, attacking in two- plane teams. You'll fly along this narrow canyon to your target. Radar guided surface-to-air missiles defend the area.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>On screen, a schematic of a radar-guided missile array.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>These SAMs are lethal, but they were designed to protect the skies above. Not the ground... Not the canyon below.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>That's because the enemy knows no one is insane enough to navigate that low at high speed.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>And that's exactly what I'm gonna train you to do.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A127 CONTINUED: A127 ON HANGMAN who smiles. This is gonna be intense. Overhead animation of two planes zig-zagging through a narrow valley.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Your altitude on the day will be one hundred feet... Maximum.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Reactions from the pilots.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Exceed this altitude... Radar will spot you - And you're dead.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As the planes on screen bank, one goes too high... A missile fires and destroys the high plane.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Speed on the day...860 knots. Minimum. Time to target, two and a half minutes.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>More reactions from the pilots.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(pointing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That's because these Fifth generation fighters are waiting at an airbase nearby...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>One screen, schematics of the lethal looking next-gen aircraft. Beside this, animation shows a Tomahawk Missile launch from a destroyer in a carrier group at sea as"</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Simultaneous to your ingress, a carrier-based strike will take out this airfield, but if any of these planes are airborne before that, they'll anticipate your target and immediately move to defend it. In a head-to-head with these planes in your F18s... you're dead.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(more reactions)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You want to get in, hit your target and be gone before these planes even have a chance of catching you. This makes time your greatest adversary.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A127 CONTINUED: (2) A127 The canyon, the missiles and the fifth gen planes share the screen now.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>The faster you navigate this canyon, the harder it will be to stay under the radar of these enemy SAMs. The deeper you are in the canyon, the less margin for error there will be. The tighter the turns, the more intensely the force of gravity on your body multiplies.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick points to various turns on the canyon map.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You've all faced sustained Gs before. But this... This will take you and your aircraft to the breaking point.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Reactions from the class. Holy shit.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>For today's exercise, we'll start easy. You'll be flying a route on your nav-system which simulates the valley. Maximum ceiling: three hundred feet. Time to target: three minutes. Good luck.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MOUNTAINS - "LOW-LEVEL INGRESS TRAINING" - SORTIE 1</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ZOOM. POV from the nose of an F-18: ripping a BRUTAL SLALOM through canyons and valleys at incredible speed...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S/COYOTE'S F-18S - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix/Bob fly behind Coyote, blasting above the rocky desert terrain. Phoenix has one eye on a GPS. A green dot represents their F- 18. A blue line represents the route she has to take. Red lines on either side represent canyon walls. To stay on the line, she has to bank hard, pulling switchbacks with tremendous Gs. In back, Bob has his own GPS, monitoring the clock, making calculations. They are both sweating. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Time to target is one minute thirty. We're twenty seconds behind. Increase to 900 knots.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>We gotta move, Coyote.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Sweating, Coyote guns it, banking harder to follow the proposed route. The Gs intensify and the team strains. It's grueling.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRAINING CANYON - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>But he can't make the turn...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COYOTE'S F-18 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Coyote yanks back the throttle and hits the brakes. CLOSE ON: The line on Coyote's's GPS. He strays too far and over the red line. An alarm blares.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>God dammit.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A131 INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - DAY A131</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix comes around the corner to see Coyote's jet with its airbrakes extended. She yanks on the stick sending her jet into a near vertical climb, breaking the 200 foot ceiling.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY - DEBRIEF</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick's with all the trainees, replaying the TRAINING RUN like a coach breaking down postgame film...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Coyote)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Why are they dead?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>We broke the 300 foot ceiling. A surface-to-air missile took us out.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Coyote)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No. Why are they dead?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>I slowed down and gave her no warning. It's my fault.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Coyote feels the eyes of the class on him.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Was there a reason you didn't communicate with your team?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Coyote goes to speak.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>One that their family will accept at the funeral.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Coyote feels the heat.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>None... sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Then he turns on Phoenix.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>And why didn't you anticipate the turn? You were briefed on the terrain.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Now Phoenix is the in the hot seat. Rooster stares daggers at Maverick. Maverick points to Bob.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Tell it to his family.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Off Phoenix's look, Hangman smiles.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRAINING CANYONS/INT. F-18S - SORTIE 2 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Two more F-18s (Payback/Fanboy and Hangman) TWIST along the imaginary route, dangerously close. High G turns. Sweat.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Hangman ease up. Canyon's getting tighter.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Negative. Increase your speed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Payback does so. But Hangman is still pulling away.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>You're going too fast, man.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: Hangman navigates a tight turn.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>No harm in being ahead of schedule.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>DAMMIT, SLOW DOWN- SHIT.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Too close to the canyon wall, Payback pulls up, breaking the ceiling.</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>We're too high-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>An alarm sounds.</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Radar has a lock. We're dead.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY - DEBRIEF</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Payback and Fanboy glare at the back of Hangman's head.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What happened?</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I flew as fast as I could. Kinda like my ass depended on it.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>And...</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>He put his team in danger and his wingman is dead.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>They couldn't keep up.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Hangman lock eyes. Off Rooster shaking his head:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRAINING CANYONS - SORTIE 3 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>BOOM: Rooster, backed by Harvard and Yale, screams along the route, cranking and banking. They're flying with extreme skill and confidence, a polished machine. But:</scene_description>
    <character>HARVARD</character>
    <dialogue>We're ten seconds behind and dropping. Increase to 920 knots.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S F-18/HARVARD-YALE F-18</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Negative, Harvard. Hold your speed.</dialogue>
    <character>YALE</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, we're late.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We're alive. We'll make up time in the straightaway.</dialogue>
    <character>YALE</character>
    <dialogue>We're too far behind. We have to go now.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Maintain current speed. We can make it, WE CAN MAKE IT-</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DEBRIEF - DAY</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What did you do wrong?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster just stares at him.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Why are you dead?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick looks to her.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>He's the only one who made it to the target.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>A minute late. He gave the Enemy aircraft time to shoot him down. He's still dead.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You don't know that.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>You're not. Flying. Fast enough. You were team leader up there.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>Man, on the day, the canyon will be tighter.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>We'll be pulling even higher G's, and the missiles will be real.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>The ceiling will be one hundred feet, time to target, two and half minutes.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>You don't have a second to waste.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Maverick has never taken his eyes off of Rooster.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We made it to the target.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>And superior enemy planes intercepted you on your way out.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Then it's a dog fight-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Against fifth generation fighters.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We'd still have a chance.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>In an F18-</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>It's not the plane, it's the pilot-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Exactly.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick regrets saying it in the same instant. Ugly pause. Rooster simmers.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>There's more than one way to fly this mission, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>You don't get it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>All eyes turn to him. CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>On this mission, a man flies like Maverick here or a man doesn't come back.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Phoenix)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No offense.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Yet somehow you always manage.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I don't mean to criticize. You're conservative is all.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Lieutenant-</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>We're going into combat, son. On a level no living pilot has ever seen.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(pointing to Maverick)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Not even him. It's no time to be letting the past hold you back-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Lieutenant-</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>What's that supposed to mean?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman looks around the room, waiting. Finally:</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I can't be the only one who knows that Maverick flew with his old man? Or that Maverick was flying when your old man-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's enough Lieutenant-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But it's too late. Rooster lunges, grabs Hangman's collar. The class jumps in. In an instant its chaos. Hangman is not fighting back. Rooster is. Maverick, Phoenix and several other have him held tight.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>(hands up)</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You sonofabitch.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>I'm cool, I'm cool. It's all good.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You're all dismissed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (3) He snaps, tears himself free of those still grasping him.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Maverick)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You know I'm right.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I said you're dismissed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman pulls himself free and walks out.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav sits alone at the end of the day. He gets a text from Iceman. Ice wants to see him.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. ADMIRAL'S HOUSE - CORONADO COAST - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick RIDES up on his bike, arriving at a stately officer's home right on the ocean. Children are playing the backyard. The sound of laughter. Mav is greeted at the door by SARAH KAZANSKY, (50).</scene_description>
    <character>SARAH</character>
    <dialogue>Girls, girls, why don't you head outside?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sarah.</dialogue>
    <character>SARAH</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She tries to smile. Can't.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(realizing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's come back.</dialogue>
    <character>SARAH</character>
    <dialogue>No one knows. He's still on active duty.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sarah...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Her eyes well with tears and he hugs her.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ADMIRAL'S OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A photo we've seen before - Maverick and Iceman on a carrier deck, a moment of triumph from another age. It holds a place of prominence among many happy memories. Children, grandchildren, birthdays, graduations, adventures. OUT THE WINDOW we see the same extended. Happy. Content. Maverick enters quietly. Sarah closes the door behind him.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Admiral.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>REVEAL: A MAN sitting at a desk with his back to us, dressed warmly, too warm for the room, not a blonde hair out of place. His head is turned to the window, watching the children play in the yard.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>How's my wingman?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He doesn't answer. Instead, he turns to the laptop on his desk and types. As Maverick approaches: REVERSE: TOM "ICEMAN" KAZANSKY looks good for his years, if a little tired. It takes a moment for us to notice the bandage around his throat. They share a smile that quickly fades... ON SCREEN: I'm dying. You have bigger problems.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Don't worry about me. I'll be fine. What can I do for you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ice types: I don't want to talk about me. How's work?</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>That's not important now-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ice points to the screen, his eyes adamant. Understanding, Maverick relents.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster is still mad at me for what I did.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>You were protecting him. You did the right thing. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I thought he would eventually understand why. I hoped he'd forgive me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>There's still time.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>The mission is less three weeks away. The kid isn't ready.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Then teach him.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>He doesn't want what I have to give.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ice waves a hand: bullshit.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I shouldn't be teaching the mission I should be flying it. Don't ask me to send someone else to die. Don't ask me to send him. Send me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>It's time to let go. Beat. It pains Maverick to answer.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I don't know how.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ice waits, knowing not to say anything.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not a teacher. I'm a fighter pilot. A naval aviator. It's not what I am, it's who I am... How do I teach that?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ice waits.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Even if I could, it's not what Rooster wants - it's not what the Navy wants. That's why they canned me the last time. You're the only reason I'm still here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ice waits. Mav takes a long shaky breath, admitting:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I get it. Rooster's not the only one holding back. I'm afraid...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2) If I send him on this mission he might never come home... If I don't send him... He'll never forgive me. Either way, I could lose him... forever. Ice waits. Mav looks at the screen. It's time to let go. And Maverick nods, reaching the core of it, of himself:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I know... I know...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ice stands, but his hands on his friend's shoulders, struggles to speak:</scene_description>
    <character>ICEMAN</character>
    <dialogue>The Navy needs Maverick. That kid needs Maverick. They just don't want to admit it. That's why I fought for you. That's why you're still here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick is deeply touched. Then realizes:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You knew Rooster was on this assignment before you chose me, didn't you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Busted, Ice smiles. The two friends embrace.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You're a warrior, Ice. A fighter.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON Ice's face. He knows otherwise.</scene_description>
    <character>ICEMAN</character>
    <dialogue>So who's the best pilot...</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>It's a nice moment. Don't ruin it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And the olds friends manage to laugh.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone walks in to find the room empty. Curious.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone peeks in. Also empty.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TOP GUN HANGAR - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone studies loitering F-18s flanking a deserted hangar.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CORONADO BEACH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: A football. Hands come down into frame, grip it, ready to snap it camera left to camera right. CLOSE ON: A football. Hands come down into frame, grip it, ready to snap it right to left. REVEAL: The pilots are divided into two teams, squaring off in a game of football with one unusual feature: There are two balls. Both quarterbacks snap at the same time. Both teams scramble. In an instant, it is chaos. Maverick is a quarterback on one team, Rooster on the other. Rooster manages to make a pass. Maverick is sacked. In fact, the opposition seems to care more about sacking the teacher than they do about scoring. Yet, in the midst of the hard-hits, we see something we haven't seen before: camaraderie. Hondo makes an epic attempt at a touchdown despite half the class clinging to him. Hangman looks down at a prone Maverick, relishing a kill. Rooster, walks past, stops, grudgingly helps him up. It is the first remotely friendly moment they have shared. Maverick, a little sore, tenderly heads off field, waving Bob in as his replacement.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HARD DECK BAR - REAR</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick sits in one of two low lawn chairs, watching the chaos, mildly amused. He helps himself to a beer from a cooler as he eyes: Hangman helping Rooster off the ground. Another truce of sorts. Both balls snap and the entire class clashes. Anarchy. Mav smiles. CONTINUED: And a shadow falls over Maverick. Maverick looks up at:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone is standing just beside Maverick, sunglasses hiding his eyes. He stares at the game, perplexed.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>What is this?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Dog fight football. Offense and defense at the same time.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>And who's winning?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, they stopped keeping score a long time ago.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>This detachment has training to do, Captain. Every available minute counts.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Then why am I looking at this clown show?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You asked me to build a team, sir. There's your team.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone looks again. The cadets are split into two huddles, strategizing, working together. They break for the next play.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>The mission has been moved up one week. Last phase of training starts tomorrow.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And he walks away, taking with him any sense of accomplishment the day has produced. Maverick looks back at the class, Rooster's team rallying around him.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B152 EXT. HARD DECK B152</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick walks up the beach behind the pilots, keeping the news to himself.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>You're good with them.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He turns, sees Penny standing by the back door of the Hard Deck.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>If I didn't know better, I'd say you're taking to this job. Maybe even enjoying it.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I've always liked football.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>That's not what I mean and you know it.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(off his look)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>If you're not careful you could find yourself getting used to this.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav considers this. Nods, uncomfortable.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You okay?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'm okay, it's just... Time, you know? There's never enough.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>That's for sure.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They stare at one another for a while.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. PENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Penny arrive on Maverick's bike. Penny climbs off. A bit of a pause. Easier now. She turns toward the house. Maverick looks away, exhales.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You coming or not?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: He looks and sees her waiting by the door. He's not sure how to respond. Penny heads inside. Maverick climbs off his bike and follows.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. PENNY'S HOUSE - BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Penny lie in bed, laughing quietly. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Should I go? Before Amelia gets \* back. \*</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY \*</character>
    <dialogue>She's staying at a friend's \* tonight. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>You two seem (even/a lot) closer \* than the last time I saw you. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>(off her nod) \* How'd you manage? \*</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY \*</character>
    <dialogue>Well you know Amelia has a mind of \* her own. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Where'd she get that I wonder? \*</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY \*</character>
    <dialogue>And she wanted more freedom than I \* thought she was ready for. But, I \* realized I had to trust her and let \* her make her own mistakes. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Not an easy choice. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She sees the look on his face, understands. \*</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY \*</character>
    <dialogue>Is that what happened with Rooster? \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He looks at her, realizes she sees everything. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>I stood in his way... I pulled his \* papers at the academy, took years \* off his career. \*</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY \*</character>
    <dialogue>Why? \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>His mother never wanted him to fly. \* Not after what happened to Goose. \* She made me swear to her before she \* died. So... \*</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY \*</character>
    <dialogue>Does Rooster know that? \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>He'll always resent me for what I \* did. Why should he resent her too? \*</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY \*</character>
    <dialogue>Not an easy choice. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>I didn't know what else to do. I \* just... I was trying to be the \* father he lost. I just wish I'd \* handled it better. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Penny touches his cheek. He sighs. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>The truth is, I didn't think he was \* ready... \*</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Is he ready now?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>He's a great pilot. He has the instincts. But he's too careful.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(sighs)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He's flying with his father's ghost up there. I know a thing or two about that.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Long pause. Penny is about to respond when:</scene_description>
    <character>AMELIA (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Mom, I'm home.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They freeze.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Thought you were staying at Karen's tonight.</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Karen's sick and I have homework to do.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2) Mav and Penny share a look, quietly.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I should go.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He leaps up, pulls on his pants and shirt.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Amelia)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Did you have dinner?</dialogue>
    <character>AMELIA (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Not yet. Wanna go out?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>No, no. I'll make you something.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick heads to the stairs.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Not that way.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And Penny's nods to the open window. Beat.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You're can't be serious.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I am serious. I have an example to set and I'm not in the habit of bringing men home on the first date.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>This is not a first date.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Penny goes back for Mav's jacket and gives it to him. Pushing him out. He just stares. He can't believe he's doing this. He starts to climb out, looks back.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Fine. But this is the last time I go out your window.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She smiles and they kiss.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. PENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick's drops to the ground, rolls, picks himself up. He turns, brushing himself off, coming face to face with: Amelia, in the kitchen, seeing him through the window. After an awkward moment.</scene_description>
    <character>AMELIA</character>
    <dialogue>Just don't break her heart again.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And she turns away, leaving Maverick to process that.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK (PRELAP)</character>
    <dialogue>Morning... The uranium enrichment plant that is your target will be operational earlier than expected. Raw uranium will be delivered to the plant in ten days time.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Warlock addresses the class. Maverick is off to one side.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>To avoid contaminating the target valley with radiation, your mission has been moved up one week.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Your mission has been moved up one week to avoid contaminating the target valley with radiation.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Reactions from the class. This is bad.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, no one here has successfully flown the low level course.</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Nevertheless, you have been ordered to move on. Captain.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As the class absorbs this, Warlock nods to Maverick.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>We have one week left to focus on phase two - the most difficult stage of the mission: a pop-up strike with a steep dive requiring nothing less than two consecutive miracles.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CALIFORNIA DESERT - "POP-UP TARGETING TRAINING"</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Two F-18s blast low over ground pockmarked by scrub brush.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S/PHOENIX &amp; BOB'S F18S - SORTIE 1 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT SCREEN DIRECTION\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>ROOSTER and PHOENIX/BOB are \[FLYING AS A TEAM\], heading toward a U-shaped cluster of RUSTED SHIPPING CONTAINERS.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Two pairs of F-18s will fly in a welded wing formation.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGMAN/PAYBACK &amp; FANBOY'S F18S - SORTIE 2 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>In a separate sortie, Hangman and Payback/Fanboy fly at the same target: A small STEEL TARGET DRUM behind the containers.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>Teamwork - the precise coordination of these aircraft - is essential to both the mission's success, and your survival.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - BRIEF</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>On the main screen, a simulation of the mission plays out in slow, deliberate motion as Maverick speaks.</scene_description>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT\]</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>As you know, the plant rests between two mountains. To maintain the lowest possible altitude, you'll invert directly into a steep dive. Your target is an impact point less than three meters wide.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: The aircraft in the simulation climb a mountain and roll onto their backs at the peak before diving, upside down. They roll upright and dive steeply.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CALIFORNIA DESERT/INT. F18S - SORTIE 1&amp;2 - INTERCUT</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Both teams' aircraft fly in tandem mimicking this maneuver. \[CLIMB A MOUNTAIN AND ROLL ONTO THEIR BACKS AT THE PEAK BEFORE DIVING UPSIDE DOWN. THEY ROLL UPRIGHT AND DIVE STEEPLY.\] Of course, they do so without mountains in their way.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - BRIEF</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT\]</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>The two-seat aircraft will paint the target with a laser bullseye. The lead single seat will breach the reactor by dropping a laser- guided bomb through an exposed ventilation shaft on the surface. That's miracle number one.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>In the simulation, the first team's bomb hits and the planes pull out.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Second team delivers the killshot.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The second teams' bomb hits and the target is destroyed.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Miracle number two.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CALIFORNIA DESERT/INT. F18S - SORTIE 1&amp;2 - INTERCUT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The teams dive, again without mountains, toward the shipping containers that guard the target.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>If you can't hold your dive, if you lose your laser lock, you'll miss.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: Hangman and Payback miss the target.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>That's a miss. Goddamnit. Do your job.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>If either teams misses... You fail.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Phoenix, in a separate sortie, miss. Dammit.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>That's a miss. That's a miss.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster flips off mask.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Sorry Bob. That's on me.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - BRIEF</stage_direction>
    <character>\[EVERYONE POPS UP, ROLL LEFT, OVER THE TOP INVERTED, ROLL</character>
    <dialogue>RIGHT TOWARDS THE TARGET.\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>On the screen, the animated planes arc upward an out of the deep valley as:</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (O.C.)</character>
    <dialogue>Egress is a steep, high G climb out. And this is where you'll be at your most vulnerable.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Phoenix/Bob pull back as hard as they can, crushed into their seats, heads pinned back. Hangman and Payback, in a separate sortie, do the same. \[INTERCUT AS BOTH PLANES CLIMB\], as pilots are strained to the point of breaking.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - BRIEF</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>In the simulation behind Maverick, an animated pair of aircraft fly into the valley and fail to make the climb. They fly smack into the side of a mountain.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>This... is coffin corner.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The class share looks. This is bad. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(pointing)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Should you manage to avoid this mountain, you'll climb straight up, into enemy radar, losing all your airspeed. Within seconds, you'll be fired upon by enemy SAMs.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Animated planes climb into a hailstorm of SAMs. They take evasive action and dive immediately.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>How fast you can dive back down into the canyon, will mean the difference between life and death.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix stops Maverick mid-brief.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>A climb like that, at that speed, we'll be pulling at least eight Gs.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Nine. Minimum.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>The stress limit of the F18s airframe is 7.5 Gs.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster stares at Maverick. Neither man blinks.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's the accepted limit. To survive this mission you'll have to pull beyond that, even if it means bending your air frame.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He points to the animation of lethal looking SAMs firing on climbing F-18s on the screen:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Climbing out of that canyon, you'll be a sitting duck, with SAMs coming at you from all directions.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CALIFORNIA DESERT/INT. F18S - SORTIE 1&amp;2 - INTERCUT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Both teams strain desperately \[PULLING OUT\], dramatizing what Maverick describes \[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT\]: CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>You'll weigh close to two thousand pounds, fighting with everything you have just to keep from blacking out, your lungs imploding like an elephant is sitting on your chest - your skull crushing your spine.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(Note: Important we include PILOT POV establishing gray-out in the lead up to G-LOCK)</parenthetical>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A170 INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - BRIEF A170</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>And we're back. The reality of this hitting home. Maverick points to the canyon map on the screen.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Your only chance of survival will be to get what's left of your aircraft below radar again. Then follow this canyon back to the carrier.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Hangman)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Kinda like your ass depended on it.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to class)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That's if you strike the target on time. If you don't, you may have an even bigger problem to contend with.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick clicks a remote. On the screen, the enemy's vaunted fifth generation fighter appears.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You'll be flying in a damaged F18 against one of the most lethal fighter planes ever produced.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>After an ugly silence:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Sir... is this even achievable?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (V.O.)</character>
    <dialogue>In the end, the answer to your question will come down to the pilot in the box.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And Maverick looks to Rooster, which in turn takes us to:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CALIFORNIA DESERT - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>In the distance, \[TWO F-18S STREAK TOWARDS\] the target.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>In the foreground, \[MAV'S BLACK F-18 RISES INTO FRAME \] on a course to intercept.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A171 INT. COYOTE - PHOENIX/BOB F18S INTERCUT - POP UP SORTIE 3A171</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Coyote in the lead, backed by Phoenix and Bob.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>We're twelve seconds late on target. We gotta move, we gotta move.</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <parenthetical>(agitated)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm going as fast as I can.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Blue team, you are spotted.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Radar beeps.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Bandit, Bandit. Radar contact. 20 miles left, ten o'clock. He's coming fast. 700 knots closure.</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>Shit, it's Maverick.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Stay focused.</dialogue>
    <character>\[MAV APPROACHES FROM PILOTS' 10 O'CLOCK. PILOTS' EYELINE IS</character>
    <dialogue>10 O'CLOCK.\]</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>He's swinging around to the north.</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>What do you want to do?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What do you want to do?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A171 CONTINUED: A171</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Continue. We're close. Stay on target. Be ready on that laser, Bob.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>On it..</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bob reaches for a button/knob, constantly working.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>Popping in 3-2-1.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Popping in 3-2-1.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CALIFORNIA DESERT/INT. F18S - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <character>\[COYOTE, P/BOB SCREAM INTO THEIR WELDED WING POP-UP MANEUVER,</character>
    <dialogue>ARCING INTO THE SKY AND THEN ROLL OVER TO MAKE THEIR 45</dialogue>
    <character>DEGREE DIVE.\]</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick is approaching...</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>Talk to me, Bob. Where is Maverick?</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>I'm a little busy right now.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>WE GOT THIS COYOTE.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bob paints it with his laser.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>CAPTURED.</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>GOT IT. BOMBS AWAY.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But as he hits his payload trigger a WARNING LIGHT flashes: "MALFUNCTION." He tries again. And again.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>DAMMIT. HUNG BOMB. HUNG BOMB.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Coyote curses under his breath, \[PULLS OUT OF THE STEEP DIVE\], Phoenix and Bob close behind, straining under the intense Gs. Suddenly, an ALARM BLARES in Phoenix's cockpit.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Shit, we're dead.</dialogue>
    <character>\[PHOENIX PEELS OFF RIGHT.\]</character>
    <dialogue>Meanwhile, \[COYOTE PULLS BACK ON THE STICK WITH ALL HE'S GOT.\]</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A196 INT. TACTICAL AUDITORUM - POP UP SORTIE 3 A196</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Coyote's plane crosses the imaginary line.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B196 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3 B196</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>That's a fail, return to base, Coyote.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C196 INT. COYOTE'S F-18 - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3 C196</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>But Coyote is determined. He keeps pulling, harder still. And we realize something is wrong.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Coyote, do you copy?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Coyote's eyes. Pinned. COYOTE'S P.O.V. The world outside is subtly pixilated, the periphery going gray, tunnel vision creeping in. Coyote is blacking out.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick sees \[COYOTE'S NEAR-VERTICAL JET START TO NOSE OVER.\]</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The others watch \[COYOTE'S PLANE START TO ROLL\]... Cyclone steps closer, knowing something is wrong.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES OVER RANGE - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. PHOENIX-BOB'S F-18 - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES OVER RANGE - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <character>\[MAVERICK DIVES LEFT AFTER COYOTE TARGETING HIS PLANE.\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[P/BOB FOLLOW FALLING IN TIGHT FORMATION WITH MAV.\]</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, come on... gimme tone, you sonofabitch.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COYOTE'S F-18 - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Coyote is half in, half out of consciousness. A WARNING ALARM SCREAMS in his cockpit, rousing him back from the brink. COYOTE'S POV, the ground coming up fast. \[COYOTE YANKS BACK ON THE STICK AND REGAINS CONTROL\] , breathing heavy.</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>I'm okay, I'm okay. I'm good...</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A204 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3 A204</stage_direction>
    <character>\[LEVEL FLIGHT\]</character>
    <dialogue>\[RIGHT ESCHELON, RIGHT TO LEFT\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Mav pulls off his oxygen mask, exhales relief.</dialogue>
    <character>\[P/BOB APPEAR BESIDE MAVERICK'S JET.\]</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(sigh of relief)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That was close.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Let's return to base.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B204 INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3 B204</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone, with Warlock, Hondo and the class, stares as this plays out on SCREENS.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C204 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - POP UP SORTIE 3 C204</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick hears a BANG, looks around. What the?</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D204 INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - POP UP SORTIE 3 D204</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix is still giving it her all when BANG.</scene_description>
    <character>\[BANKS LEFT INTO SLOW LEFT ROLL.\]</character>
    <dialogue>ALARMS BLARE. Bob's instrument cluster lights up.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>ENGINE FAILURE, LEFT ENGINE IS OUT.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Phoenix, climb.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Climbing.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix pulls back on the stick. Bob looks over his shoulder to see the LEFT engine is on fire.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>We're on fire, we're on fire.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Throttling back. Shutting off fuel. Extinguishing fire.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix pulls back on throttle and activates the fire extinguisher switch.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>We're losing the right engine.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>It's still spinning. I'm gonna try to restart it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix flips the APU switch and pushes the right throttle forward.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>APU on.Throttle up.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>D204 CONTINUED: D204 Nothing happens.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Shit. Trying again.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She tries the APU and throttle again. But suddenly, with a BANG, the right engine now CATCHES FIRE.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>E204 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3 E204</stage_direction>
    <character>\[MAVERICK SEES PHOENIX'S JET VEERING.\]</character>
    <dialogue>BOB (ON RADIO)</dialogue>
    <character>RIGHT IS OUT.</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Goddamnit.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Oh my God.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>F204 INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3 F204</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Everyone watches, helpless... Rooster stands, powerless. All he can do is watch.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>G204 INT. PHOENIX/BOB'S F-18 - DAY - POP UP SORTIE 3 G204</stage_direction>
    <character>\[PHOENIX STRUGGLES TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE PLANE.\]</character>
    <dialogue>BOB</dialogue>
    <scene_description>I've got every warning light lit up back here.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>We lost hydraulics. I can't control it.</dialogue>
    <character>\[P/BOB JET STARTS TO ROLL OFF RIGHT.\]</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>H204 INT. TACTICAL AUDITORUM - POP UP SORTIE 3 H204</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES OVER RANGE - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix's grabs the handles. The canopy blows. She and Bob are ejected one after the other seconds before their jet COLLIDES with the desert floor and EXPLODES.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - POP UP SORTIE 3</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick watches the two chutes drift, seeing the past flash before his eyes... He pulls off his mask, shutting his eyes. \[Note: Still waiting on technical here\]:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (INTO RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick to tower. We have a plane down. Send a helo.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. COASTAL MOUNTAINS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A Coast Guard MH-60T JAYHAWK SOARS OVER the landscape. INTERCUT QUICK GLIMPSES of the Coast Guard rescue: CREWMEN rappelling from the chopper with a RESCUE STRETCHER. Working expertly, they're able to pluck them off the slope.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE (PRELAP)</character>
    <dialogue>In the course of training, have you felt Captain Mitchell was forcing you beyond your natural abilities?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. INFIRMARY - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix and Bob are banged up, but alive, being tended to by MEDICS. Cyclone is here.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>No, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Would you say that his training left you no margin for error?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>We suffered a double engine failure at low altitude. We had no choice but to eject.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Bob)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Would you say that his training left you no margin for error?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: Phoenix and Bob share a look.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Don't look at her. Answer the question. Would you say that his training left you no margin for error?</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>I know what you want me to say. I'm not going to say it.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>We did what the mission calls for. Captain Mitchell is not responsible for what happened out there.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CORRIDOR OUTSIDE INFIRMARY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick waits anxiously. Cyclone emerges from the infirmary and approaches. There is a long, uncomfortable pause as Cyclone ponders what to say. Just as he goes to say it:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Admiral.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Cyclone turns their heads to see Warlock and Hondo approaching.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>At the request of Hondo here, I've just been down to inspect Captain Mitchell's plane.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone looks to Hondo: "Well?"</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Bird strike, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Come again?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>There's bird guts all down the starboard side of Mav- Of Captain Mitchell's plane, sir. Phoenix was flying in tight formation with him. I'm guessing the wreckage'll show she took a flock of birds head on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone looks at Maverick for another beat, then walks away. Warlock follows, leaving Maverick and Hondo to share a look.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. READY ROOM - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Pictures of Top Gun pilots past: Ice, Maverick, Goose. A lone light on. Rooster sits alone... He stares at his phone and a photo of his young self with Maverick. After a hesitant beat, he deletes it. Maverick enters, notices a photo in Rooster's locker: GOOSE, his wife CAROL, and a tow-headed 3-year-old Rooster, arms around each other, happy. It watches over the scene:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>They'll keep Phoenix and Bob in the hospital overnight for observation. But they're going to be okay.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I have never lost a wingman. In combat, off a carrier, never.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You've been lucky. Fly long enough, it'll happen. There will be others.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Easy for you to say. No kids, no family. No one to mourn you when you burn in.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Go home. Get some sleep.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He turns to leave, stopping on:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>WHY DID YOU PULL MY PAPERS AT THE</dialogue>
    <character>ACADEMY? WHY DID YOU STAND IN MY</character>
    <dialogue>WAY?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The words sting them both. Maverick wants to tell the truth, but can't. After a long pause.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>...You weren't ready.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Ready for what? Ready to fly like you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>No, ready to forget the book. Trust your instincts. Don't think. Just do. You think up there, you're dead. Believe me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster smiles at the irony.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>My dad believed in you. I'm not gonna make the same mistake.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Before Maverick can respond:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick turns, seeing something in Warlock's eyes. And in that moment he knows. The sound of taps takes us to:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MILITARY CEMETERY - DAY - THREE DAYS LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A portrait of Iceman presides over his funeral. An AMERICAN FLAG is presented to his wife. Her sons, their wives and small children are all by her side. A large group of NAVAL OFFICERS and their FAMILIES are in attendance. Officers are all in crisp dress blues. Maverick stands beside Iceman's family. Elsewhere, Penny's with Amelia. Cyclone receives the folded flag from the officers and presents it to Sarah. Sarah glances to Maverick who begins his eulogy.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Ice understood what it is to be a wingman. A wingman is willing to defend your life with their own...stay with you no matter how impossible the odds... More than anything, a wingman is there to push you beyond your limits, encourage you to find the very best in yourself. Ice was a wingman to his family, his friends, to every life he touched. That is why I know he'll never be truly gone.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick steps forward to the casket, puts his wings on the casket and salutes. CONTINUED: In THE CROWD: Rooster and the trainees are in attendance too, along with many TOPGUN graduates. Rooster watches Mav step away from the casket... ...as there's the rumbling CRESCENDO OF JETS as the Navy's BLUE ANGELS STREAK OVERHEAD. One pulls up into a vertical climb: the "missing man" formation. Maverick and Cyclone make eye contact.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE (PRELAP)</character>
    <dialogue>I know that you and Admiral Kazansky were close.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A212 INT. CYCLONE'S OFFICE A212</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick stands before Cyclone, seated at his desk.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>I can only imagine what you must be feeling. Take some time. Whatever you need.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I appreciate that, sir. But there's no time. The mission is in-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>I'll be taking over the training from here.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir...</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>We both know you didn't want this job, Captain.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, there is only one way to fly this mission-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>There's never only one way-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>They're not ready-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>It was your job to get them ready.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A212 CONTINUED: A212</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>They have to believe the mission can be flown-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>All you've managed to teach them is that it can't.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, I-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>You're grounded, Captain. Permanently. That is all.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick lingers, searches for words.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>That is all.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick nods and exits.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. PENNY'S HOUSE - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Penny is on the porch, waiting for Maverick.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I heard. I'm sorry.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick sighs.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>What're you gonna do?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Ice is gone.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Then you're gonna have to find a way back on your own.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Back? Penny, I'm out. It's over.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>But you're not finished. And you'll never be finished if you let it end like this. They're your pilots. If anything happens to them now, you'll never forgive yourself.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Penny, what can I do-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>If you'd lost your wingman up there, you'd keep fighting. You'd never just give up.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And he knows she's right. She smiles a little, hopeful but sad...</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You'll find a way, Pete. I know you will. Come back when you do.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>She stands and walks in the house. He's left alone with the sunset and the distant RUMBLE of jets ascending...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - NEXT DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Trainees back in seats. Cyclone instructs. Warlock is there too.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Time to target is now four minutes. You'll be entering the valley level at reduced speed. Not to exceed 420 knots.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster's eyes narrow. What the fuck is this?</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, won't we be giving their planes time to intercept?</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, Lieutenant you have a fighting chance against enemy aircraft. What are the odds of survival in a head-on collision with a mountain?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>This is not lost on Rooster.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Now you will hit the target from higher altitude, level with the north wall. It'll be a little harder to hold your laze on the target but you'll avoid the high G climb out.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Fanboy whispers to Payback. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>And be sitting ducks for enemy missiles.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The SCREEN behind him shows a JET'S POV approaching a mountain range. Trainees are, distracted. Cyclone turns.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Who the hell is that?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRAINING CANYONS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick's BLACK F-18 SCREAMS across the landscape, dropping lower as mountain peaks loom...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick's at the stick, GUNNING it for the mountains...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick to Range Control. Entering at Point Alpha. Confirm a green range.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Reactions from the class.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <parenthetical>(whispers)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Nice...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON Rooster, his expression hard to read.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE DOES NOT TAKE HIS EYES OFF THE SCREEN.</character>
    <dialogue>CYCLONE</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bring all the screens up. Hondo hits a few buttons and All SCREENS COME ON with the POVs from Maverick's F-18 as:</scene_description>
    <character>BASE ATC (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Aircraft calling range control, range is green, but I don't see an event scheduled for you. Say your range event number.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Make one up for me. Maverick's pushing.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRAINING CANYONS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Afterburner ROARS as Mav slices ahead, studying the THREE ROUTES on his display, as he locks in his focus...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster watches Mav's SCREEN POV lining up for a run...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Setting time to target at two minutes... fifteen seconds.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Reactions from the room.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>That's impossible.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON ROOSTER, focused on the screen.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRAINING CANYON - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav's jet ROARS into the course, dipping dangerously low, SKIMMING right above the riverbed floor.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Final attack point, inbound.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster and the rest watch his TIMER and ALTITUDE levels...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TRAINING CANYONS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav's F-18 HUGS the tight twists and curves, seeing the Final Canyon final narrow notch now looming ahead as he KNIFES through the final ridge gap that stymied Rooster.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to himself)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's no good.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Suddenly, he yanks back on the stick and climbs out of the valley.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The class watches him climb out. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>He's backing off.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Hangman)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Nobody can do it. Nobody.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Reactions of disappointment from all but two: Rooster, leaning in, waiting... And Cyclone, who nods ever so slightly, in a way that says he will deal with Maverick permanently.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Tell the tower to order that man to land that aircraft.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>When he hears no response, he turns to Hondo.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Now.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hondo snaps out of it and reaches for the phone.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18</stage_direction>
    <character>BASE ATC (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick... You are ordered to land immedi-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick shuts off his radio.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Talk to me, Goose...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick resets the clock, cranks the stick hard and dives, coming back around for a second pass. He repeats the same maneuver's, except:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone turns, noticing the class staring at the screens, enrapt.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Hondo)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Shut them off. Shut them all off-</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>He's going again...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone turns to face the screen as everyone else leans in. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>He's less than a hundred feet off the deck.</dialogue>
    <character>COYOTE</character>
    <dialogue>... And dropping.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bob checks his watch, hits the timer. CLOSE ON ROOSTER, waiting...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. RANGE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Silence. An empty sky. Barely a breeze. A black spot on the horizon growing larger by the second until THE GATES OF HELL EXPLODE and Maverick's F-18 blows right over us at 920 knots and twenty feet off the deck.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Popping in three... two... one.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He SWOOPS into his POP-UP CLIMB, pulling severe G's as he tops out, rolls and PLUNGES INTO HIS BOMBING DIVE.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>No wingman to laze the target. Dropping blind.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He struggles to put the shuddering STEEL DRUM target in his crosshairs...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Bombs away.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BOMBING RANGE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>He DROPS a TRAINING ROUND as he dives, and SWOOPS INTO A CLIMB at the last possible second. As the SMOKE HITS:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Bullseye. HOLY SHIT. BULLSEYE.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <parenthetical>(re watch)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Time on target: Two minutes- fifteen. To the second.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav BATTLES the jet, pulling 10 Gs on his egress, impossibly steep. Fighting hard to clear the "virtual mountain"...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. TACTICAL AUDITORIUM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Target is destroyed. Maverick is RTB.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The team can see the readout on their screen. 10 Gs, far beyond the accepted limits of the F18.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>10 Gs... Damn.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The trainees react. They'd cheer if Cyclone weren't here. Cyclone stares at the screen, his expression impossible to read. Warlock eyes the trainees. Rooster sits back, looks down. He's the only one not celebrating. He has too much to think about now.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE (PRE-LAP)</character>
    <dialogue>You've put me in a difficult position, Captain.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CYCLONE'S OFFICE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rain is pouring outside. Thunder rolls. A clock ticks. Mav sits beside Warlock in front of Cyclone's desk. Cyclone's stares out the widow, hands behind his back.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>On the one hand, you've demonstrated that the mission can be flown. Perhaps in the only way it can be survived. On the other hand, you did so by stealing a multi-million dollar military aircraft and flying it in such a manner that it may never be airworthy again.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(turns)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Iceman is no longer here to protect you. And I have everything I need to have you court-martialled and dishonorably discharged.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: But then I would be disposing of the one man with a ghost of a chance of successfully completing this mission. Maverick blinks, stunned. Did he hear that correctly?</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>So, what do I do? Risk the lives of my pilots, not to mention the success of the mission, by sending them without you? Or risk my career by appointing you team leader?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick moves to speak, Warlock stops him.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>I believe the Admiral is asking a rhetorical question, Captain.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And over Maverick's incredulous expression:</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>You'll choose your team on the carrier. You ship out tonight.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HARD DECK - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Crowded, busy, alive. SAILORS dancing. Maverick enters in uniform. Behind the bar, Penny brightens when she sees him. But her smile fades when she sees the look on his face. And the sounds of the bar give way to:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HARD DECK - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The sounds of the ocean. Just Maverick and Penny now. She's up to speed and stunned. She studies him. He just stares. His eyes say it all. She embraces him tightly and shuts her eyes. CLOSE ON: MAVERICK. His eyes are set on an uncertain future. And the pre-lap of JET ENGINES warming up gives way to:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - CARRIER READY ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The roar of the ocean as the imposing USS JOHN C. THEODORE ROOSEVELT cuts through the waves.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK (PRELAP)</character>
    <dialogue>Your target is a clear and present threat: a secret uranium enrichment site under rogue state control.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - CARRIER READY ROOM NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick, Rooster and all of the pilots. Hondo is off to the side with Cyclone. All eyes are on Warlock at the head of the room. On a SCREEN behind him, a detailed map of the TARGET VALLEY highlights the flight paths of various elements.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>It's an underground bunker tucked between these two mountains. Your route of ingress is heavily defended by surface to air missiles, backed up by fifth generation fighters.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Mav's team)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Once your F-18 strike team crosses the border, Tomahawk Missiles from the USS LEYTE GULF will be launched in a synchronized strike on the enemy's airfield... here.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(points)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The moment those Tomahawks hit, the enemy will know you're coming. Your time to target will be two minutes and thirty seconds. Any longer than that and you will be exposed to any aircraft the Tomahawks may have missed.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Most importantly, remember coffin corner. On the climb out of the valley, you'll be exposed to enemy missiles. Remember, get low as fast as you can and break for home.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Warlock takes a beat, looking over the faces of the pilots. Rooster cannot believe this any more than Maverick. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Captain Mitchell, select your two Foxtrots.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Payback and Fanboy... Phoenix and Bob.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix and Bob are understandably moved.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>And your wingman?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman straightens, ready for the job. Rooster looks down.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone is surprised, most of all, Rooster and Hangman.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>The rest of you will standby on the carrier in reserve.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>This is what you've all been training for. Come home safely. Good luck to you all. Dismissed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As the pilots fall out, Maverick steps to Hangman.'</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hangman, you're one of the most fearless pilots I've ever seen.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>But you need someone who'll put the team first. I did not demonstrate that to you, sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick doesn't need to reply.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster is your man.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He nods falls out. Hondo approaches Maverick as he shifts attention to Rooster.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Is he ready?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>He'll have to be.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2) Maverick's eyes meet Rooster's. There is nothing to say.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A240 EXT. CARRIER ELEVATOR - DAWN A240</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>AN F-18 silhouetted against the morning sky, rising to the main deck. A HELMET edges into frame, bearing red white and blue stripes along with the name: MAVERICK. BOOM UP TO REVEAL the man holding the helmet, his back to us, his head turned slightly. Something troubles him. Deeply.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Talk to me, Goose...</dialogue>
    <character>MAN'S VOICE (O.S.)</character>
    <dialogue>Captain Mitchell.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick turns to see Warlock looking up as the elevator rises.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>You're where you belong. Make us proud.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick smiles, nods.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FLIGHT DECK - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A ballet of controlled chaos as various FLIGHT DECK CREWS prepping all the aircraft involved in the mission. Rooster, Phoenix, Bob, Payback and Fanboy step onto the deck. It's for real now. No more training. They trade determined looks... and head for the planes... Rooster finds Hangman in his way. After a long pause.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Give 'em hell.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster nods. Hangman walks away, leaving Rooster to contemplate the gravity of what's happening. Rooster sees Maverick.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>It is the first time we've heard him say that name. The two men meet by Mav's F-18.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, I...I just want to say--</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>FLIGHT DECK SPEAKER</character>
    <dialogue>Start the go aircraft. Start 'em up.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>We'll talk when we get back.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They shake hands.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey Bradley, you've got this.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster nods walks away, Maverick watches him go.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO (OS)</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - MOMENTS LATER - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick snaps out of his thoughts. REVEAL: He's strapped into his F18. Hondo is leaning into the cockpit.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>You with me?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick nods. Hondo stares.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>You look like you've seen a ghost.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You're a good friend, Hondo. Thank you. For everything.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>'The hell is that supposed to mean?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Just that.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hondo stares at him. Maverick stares back. Something unspoken passes between the two men.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>It's been an honor, Captain.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And the two men shakes hands, as if, in case, it is the last time...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger One, comms check.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. F-18 - PHOENIX/BOB/ROOSTER - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix and Bob are sweating, psyching themselves past the anxiety.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger Two, up and ready.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A246 INT. F-18 - ROOSTER - DAWN A246</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster shakes off the nerves.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger Three, up and ready.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. F-18 - PAYBACK/FANBOY - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Fanboy crosses himself. Payback exhales.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger Four. We read you, sir.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A247 INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - DAWN A247</stage_direction>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger spare is up and ready. Standing by.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick is about to respond, hesitates.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A248 INT. F-18'S INTERCUT A248</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The other pilots hang in the awkward silence. Finally:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, do you copy?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B248 INT. MAVERICK'S F18 - DAWN B248</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Sir..?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>I want to thank you all for trusting me to lead you.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C248 INT. F-18'S INTERCUT C248</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Reactions from all of the pilots, moved as he continues.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You're the best of the best. It's an honor to be flying with you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>We land on Rooster for:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>All of you.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>We're with you, sir. All the way.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D248 INT. MAVERICK'S F18 DAWN D248</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Forget the sir. We're all the same rank today. Dagger One up and ready on Catapult one.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick clips on his mask.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone and Warlock stand with ship's Officers and Comms- Crew. Hondo is here as well, anxious.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>Support assets airborne. Strike package ready. Standing by for launch decision.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Send 'em.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FLIGHT DECK - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A CATAPULT OFFICER signals with a two-finger wave, as the two jets facing him throttle ENGINES to full... Maverick and Rooster, side-by-side, SALUTE the Officer, then press heads back against headrests. The FINAL CHECK CREWS around each aircraft offer a thumbs-up, one by one, causing the Catapult Officer to crouch, touching the deck to point forward. Maverick and Rooster's Super Hornets BLITZ across the deck, RIPPING into the sky. Phoenix and Bob, Payback and Fanboy are launched a moment later.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES ABOVE CLOUDS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Four F-18s fly above dark ominous clouds...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Rough Rider. Dagger, Texaco complete. Comanche, standby check- in.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT./INT. HAWKEYE - SAME - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>An AIR CONTROL OFFICER watches streams of data roll in:</scene_description>
    <character>AIR CONTROL OFFICER</character>
    <dialogue>Comanche one-one, set. Lightning One, status.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT./INT. F-35 - SAME - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>An F-35 PILOT monitors his electronic view of the valley:</scene_description>
    <character>F-35 PILOT</character>
    <dialogue>Lightning One, set. Bravo route is clear.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. F-18S - WITH ROOSTER/MAVERICK - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <character>\[ALL JETS ARE ABOVE A LAYER OF CLOUDS. THEY DESCEND THROUGH</character>
    <dialogue>THE CLOUDS TO 1000 FEET.\]</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Rooster takes a deep breath. They're going in.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Taking it down to one hundred feet.</dialogue>
    <character>\[ALL JETS DESCEND TO 100 FEET\]</character>
    <dialogue>MAVERICK</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Dagger is set. Proceeding to Bravo. Ready on my mark...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A254 INT. F-18'S INTERCUT - MORNING A254</stage_direction>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Two.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Three.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Four.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick, Rooster, Bob and Fanboy all place a finger on a timer start button set for \[TIME TBD\].</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Mark.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>All four push the button and their clocks start counting down.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Two mark.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Three mark.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Four mark.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>With Mav taking lead, the Strike Package flies in a delta formation toward enemy territory.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AM254 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - DAWN AM254</stage_direction>
    <character>A TECH STARTS A TIMER ON THE PANEL.</character>
    <dialogue>HONDO CLICKS A STOPWATCH OF HIS OWN and holds it in his clenched fist throughout the sequence, checking it periodically.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA254 EXT. OCEAN AA254</stage_direction>
    <character>\[AS THEY ROAR ACROSS THE OCEAN THE JETS SWITCH FROM DIAMOND</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>BB254 INT. F18S INTERCUT BB254</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON all of the pilots sweating, riding the ragged edge. Rooster flips switches on his console, his breathing picks up... This is low. Too low. He's sweating bullets, pushing himself to focus and hold it together.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES ABOVE MOUNTAINS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>UP AHEAD: SNOWY MOUNTAINS, all crags and jagged pines, tighter alleys than they ever had in training. CLOSE ON: Rooster, watching that narrow canyon coming up fast. He glances at his air speed. Too fast.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA255 INT. F18S - INTERCUT AA255</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>You can do this. Stay cool. Stay cool.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Target valley up ahead. Comanche, picture.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A255 INT. F-18S INTERCUT A255</stage_direction>
    <character>AIR CONTROL OFFICER (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger, picture clean. Recommend continue.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(beat)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Do you copy? Picture clean. Recommend continue. Dagger acknowledge.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger attack.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANGLE ON each of the pilots taking a deep breath as they commit...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AB255 EXT. SKIES AB255</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>\[THE FOUR JETS ROAR INTO THE NARROW CANYON.\] Tension gives way to terror. LOOKING DOWN FROM ATOP A MOUNTAIN on the valley below as the formation flies past. Phoenix and Bob fly freakishly close below several bridges. Bob looks up at them.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Uh, Phoenix?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Don't ask Bob.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>REVEAL: IN the foreground, a AUTOMATED SAM MISSILE ARRAY sitting inertly on the mountaintop, watching the skies above. CLOSE ON Bob looking up at the SAMS above.GOLD/ORANGE ROUTE</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>SAMs right over our heads. No movement.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Looks like we're clear on radar, Mav.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Let's not take it for granted.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B255 EXT. USS LEYTE GULF - MORNING B255</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Massive plumes of smoke and fire send Tomahawk Missiles skyward.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone and Warlock monitor, tense:</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Birds away.</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>No turning back now.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. SKIES/INT. F-18'S - MORNING - GOLD ROUTE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>They shoot into an ever-compressing canyon, hauling ass over the broken landscape, snowy trees flashing just beneath... Training times ten. The valley walls are tight, the high speed and sharp turns resulting in higher Gs. TBD ROUTE</scene_description>
    <character>ORANGE ROUTE</character>
    <dialogue>The physical pressure on the team alone is intense, requiring every ounce of concentration, skill and endurance.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Each of the pilots contends with the intensity in their own way. Training was nothing compared to this. They are all feeling it - Rooster most of all.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>His wing clips tree tops as he banks at 6 Gs.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Too low... too fast...</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A257 INT. F-18S INTERCUT A257</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You with me, Phoenix?</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Don't wait for me.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <parenthetical>(looking at clock)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>\[Two minutes\] to target.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <parenthetical>(looking at clock)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>We're falling behind, Payback. Increase speed to five hundred knots.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>PAYBACK'S POV of Rooster in front of him.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, do you copy? We're falling behind. We gotta move.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster in his cockpit, eyes focused, sweat beading, breathing shallow, slashing through the canyon as fast as he can go. And it isn't fast enough. A257 CONTINUED: A257 ON MAVERICK, hearing:</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, do you copy?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, kid. Don't think. Just do.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>\[Ninety seconds\] to target.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ORANGE ROUTE:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Bob, do you have visual on Rooster?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Bob looks back for a visual.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Negative.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B257 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING B257</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The satellite image of Maverick's teams shows the formation is breaking up, with two planes lagging further and further behind.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger 3 is falling behind. / Dagger 3 is disengaging from the attack team.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>\[NOTE: The following is optional. A simple edit can show the airfield with routine activity and:\]</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>\[20/30/60/90\] seconds to tomahawk impact.</dialogue>
    <character>ALARM.</character>
    <dialogue>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</dialogue>
    <scene_description>We have movement. Ground crews are on alert. CLOSE ON: The satellite image of an enemy airfield we've seen many times - the unmistakable deltas of newer fifth gen planes amidst older F-14s and F-16s. Only this time the image is live. We see people moving on the ground. Running. B257 CONTINUED: B257</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Cyclone)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The enemy is scrambling (towards) their jets.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON Hondo, quietly nervous for his friend.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, Rooster.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C257 INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 C257</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster is struggling to hold it together.</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>\[One minute\] to target.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, Mav's getting away.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We're okay. We're okay</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ORANGE ROUTE:</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>We're not okay. We're way behind. You gotta go.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Rooster's hand on the throttle, unable to push it any harder.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A275 EXT. ENEMY AIRFIELD - MORNING A275</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Watching from a short distance as SILHOUETTED AIR CREWS scramble to prep F-14 Tomcats for takeoff. Then the first Tomahawk missile impacts, decimating a hangar.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Everyone on edge, all eyes on the screens where the Enemy Airfield VANISHES in a series of heat blooms.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>Impact, enemy runways destroyed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <parenthetical>(eyes on screen)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>All right. Hit your target and come home.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA278 EXT. SKIES/INT. F-18S INTERCUT - MORNING AA278</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Payback are lagging further and further behind.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Phoenix, move up to welded wing. Stand by for pop-up strike...</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Air-to-ground check complete. Laser code verified 1688. Master-arm to go.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Verified 1688. Master arm to go.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Beneath their plane, a FLIR Targeting Pod rotates, angling its laser lens towards the target, then: An alarm flashes on FANBOY'S PANEL.</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Shit, deadeye. Targeting pod malfunction.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You have exactly thirty seconds to get it working. We're counting on you, Fanboy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As Fanboy works the problem:</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Shit, shit, shit...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ORANGE ROUTE:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A278 EXT. SKIES - MORNING A278</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Lethal looking fifth generation fighter aircraft streak across the heavens, in the flesh and on the hunt.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B278 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THOEDORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING B278</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ALARM. On another screen, two bandits are headed for Maverick and his team.</scene_description>
    <character>AIR CONTROL OFFICER (OVER RADIO)/COMM</character>
    <dialogue>TECH 2</dialogue>
    <scene_description>We're picking up bandits inbound, strength 2, X miles east of bullseye.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Where the hell did they come from?</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Long range patrol?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Come on. Move it or lose it, Rooster.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA278 INT. MAVERICK'S F18 AA278</stage_direction>
    <character>AIR CONTROL OFFICER (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger, Comanche. Contact, two bandits, 30 miles north of bullseye, targeting you.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Dammit. Time to intercept?</dialogue>
    <character>AIR CONTROL OFFICER</character>
    <dialogue>\[One minute.\]</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick looks at his clock.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, we're tight on time if we want to outrun those bandits. Where are you?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AB278 INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 AB278</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster is sweating, straining through the turns, hand frozen on the throttle.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, do you copy?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AC278 EXT. PAYBACK/FANBOY F-18 AC278</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The targeting pod jutters, stabilizes.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B278 INT. F-18S INTERCUT - MORNING B278</stage_direction>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>I GOT IT. Targeting pod is on line.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>It won't make a difference if we don't step on it. Rooster, bandits are inbound. Come on.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>COME ON, ROOSTER.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Now or never, Rooster...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON ROOSTER, breathing tight, blinking sweat from his eyes. All sound falls away. Radio chatter, his engines. And finally...</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Talk to me, dad.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster pushes the throttle. Payback watches as Rooster pulls away. He pushes his own throttle, but Rooster is still increasing his speed. Rooster has crosses over to another place, his flying on instinct, focused in a way we've never seen. Now Payback is struggling to keep up.</scene_description>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Jesus, Rooster. Not so fast.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Take welded wing, Payback.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (TO SELF)</character>
    <dialogue>That's it kid, push it.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Target in ten seconds.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C278 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT C278</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>All eyes are watching those two bogies on course to intercept. Comms-crew Tech 2 spots that Rooster has caught up.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger 3 is re-engaging. / Dagger 3 is re-engaging with the attack team.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D278 INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 D278</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster comes around a bend and sees Maverick and Phoenix's planes up ahead.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger One and Two, I have visual. We're on your six.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>E278 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 - ORANGE/PURPLE POP BOWL LOCATION</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>E278:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You're just in time. Let's deliver the mail and go home. Phoenix, we are popping in three, two, one-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Phoenix's F-18s roll inverted and crest a mountain, dropping into a valley.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. F-18 - PHOENIX/BOB - MORNING - PURPLE ROUTE</stage_direction>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger-2, targeting... Stand by.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>You can do this, Bob.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix holds their arc steady, as Bob works the FLIR...</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, Bob.</dialogue>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <dialogue>Got it. I got it. CAPTURED.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A279 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 A279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A279 CONTINUED: A279</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Target acquired, bombs away.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick releases.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B279 EXT. UNDER MAVERICK'S F-18 B279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Two super bunker busters drops from the wings of Mavericks F- 18, fins adjusting as they acquire laser guidance.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C279 EXT. SKIES/INT. MAV/PHOENIX F-18'S C279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Maverick snaps the safety paddle on his stick and pulls back as far as he can.</scene_description>
    <character>BLUE ROUTE</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick and Phoenix both wrench jets into a body-smashing climb - excessive Gs. Only this time it's for keeps as a mountain face is coming up fast.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>HOLD THAT TARGET, BOB.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON PHOENIX, her face straining. Bob struggles against the Gs to keep the laser on target. CLOSE ON: Maverick's G meter as it climbs toward, then past, 7.5 Gs... BOB'S POV - the world becomes pixilated, tunnel vision creeping in as he grays out. We've seen it before. He bears down, squeezing blood into his head to stay conscious.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D279 EXT. VALLEY BASIN - MORNING D279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick's bunker buster hits home.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>E279 INT. PHOENIX'S F-18 - BLUE ROUTE E279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix is pulling back as hard as she can as:</scene_description>
    <character>BOB</character>
    <scene_description>E279 CONTINUED: E279 The target is obscured by a massive plume of smoke.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>F279 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT F279</stage_direction>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>DIRECT HIT. DIRECT HIT.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Far from relief in the room, the tension only increases.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>That's miracle number one...</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>And now they're in coffin corner.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AG279 EXT. MOUNTAINSIDE AG279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON A radar control SAM array. Two F18's climbing skyward in the distance beyond. The array comes automatically to life, swivels and FIRES.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>G279 INT/EXT. MAV/PHOENIX/BOB F-18S INTERCUT - POP BOWL LOCATION</stage_direction>
    <character>G279</character>
    <dialogue>ALARM</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>SMOKE IN THE AIR. GET LOW, GET LOW.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Phoenix bank hard and fire countermeasures - flares filling the air as SAMs streak toward them.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>H279 INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - MORNING - ORANGE ROUTE H279</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER (INTO RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Payback, popping in three... two... one.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>I279 EXT. SKIES ABOVE VALLEY - MORNING -ORANGE/PURPLE ROUTEI279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Payback crest the mountaintop just as Maverick and Phoenix did as:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>J279 INT/EXT. MAV/PHOENIX/BOB F-18S INTERCUT J279</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Phoenix fly for their lives, dodging missiles as they race for the valley below.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - MORNING - PURPLE ROUTE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster rolls in, putting nose on target, a scorching 45' dive...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - DIVING - MORNING PURPLE ROUTE</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Fanboy. Where's my laser?</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>Targeting... Seconds away.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster's hurtling headlong, altimeter dropping 6000, 5000...</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, come on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANGLE ON: The FLIR on the belly of their plane fails.</scene_description>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>SHIT. DEADEYE, DEADEYE. OUR LASER'S</dialogue>
    <character>GONE. STANDBY.</character>
    <dialogue>The target is coming up fast, Rooster blinks away the sweat in his eyes.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We're out of time.</dialogue>
    <character>FANBOY</character>
    <dialogue>I'M WORKING ON IT. STAND BY.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>NO TIME. PULL OUT.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>ROOSTER, WAIT-</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER (TO HIMSELF)</character>
    <dialogue>Great balls of fire.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster lets his bunkers buster fly before releasing the safety and yanking back on the stick, trying to keep from face planting into a mountain.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FACILITY SITE - MORNING - PURPLE ROUTE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The Bunker Busters vanish into the cloud left by Maverick's bombs. An agonizing stillness follows.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA286 INT/EXT. MAV/PHOENIX/BOB F-18S INTERCUT AA286</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Phoenix are fighting for their lives, ALARMS BLARING, SAMs everywhere.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. TARGET VALLEY/INT. ROOSTER'S JET - BLUE ROUTE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster BATTLES his jet, climbing, climbing, with Payback right beside him as the belly of Rooster's jet brushes snow off of tree tops and into the blue. ROOSTER POV: He's graying out.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FACILITY SITE - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Just as a RIPPLING SUBTERRANEAN EXPLOSION heaves the earth and the underground facility IMPLODES on itself.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A289 INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - MORNING A289</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hangman sits in his waiting bird, listening to the game on the radio.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2 (ON RADIO)</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>Satellite imagery confirms target destroyed.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Muted reactions from all in the room.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Miracle number two.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Cyclone is listening to the radio - pilots breathing, shouting, straining, cursing. It's hell.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Now get out of there.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>HONDO squeezes his fist tightly, feeling something crack. He opens his hand to see the crystal of his stopwatch is crushed, the second hand frozen. And omen.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA290 INT. ROOSTER/PAYBACK FANBOY F18S AA290</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Their turn to dodge and weave, firing counter-measures, straining, cursing, grunting, breathing heavy in their cockpits, working to outmaneuver the agile, angry missiles. Rooster GASPS for breath as his vision returns. Another alarm.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>SHIT. THEY'RE EVERYWHERE.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>GOTTA GET LOW. GOTTA GET LOW.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Another alarm, another missile, as:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I'M OUT OF FLARES.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He looks back and to his right, sees the missile coming. He's a goner, until: ANOTHER F18 fills his sight picture.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A290 INT. MAVERICK'S F-18 (OLD SC B289) - POP BOWL LOCATIONA290</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick releases flares, but he's too late. And he knows it. The missile SLAMS into Maverick's engine. A FIREBALL SHREDS the splintering rear of the jet.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B295 INT. ROOSTER'S F-18 - MORNING -RED ROUTE B295</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C295 EXT. SKIES OVER TARGET VALLEY - MORNING - RED ROUTE C295</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix and Payback SOAR HIGHER, seeing Mav's FLAMING PLANE veer off course below.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger 1's hit.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D295 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - RED ROUTE</stage_direction>
    <character>D295</character>
    <dialogue>PHOENIX</dialogue>
    <scene_description>I repeat, Dagger 1 is hit. He's going down. The room reacts with shock. CLOSE ON Hondo, reflecting on his last moment with Mav.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AF295 EXT. SKIES AF295</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The remaining jets dive into the valley and below the SAMs and their radar. The SAM arrays go still.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>BF295 INT. F18S INTERCUT BF295</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger 1, status. Status. Anyone see him? I didn't see a chute.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>He's gone, Rooster.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>F295 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT F295</stage_direction>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Get 'em back to the carrier. Now.</dialogue>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>All Daggers flow to ECP. You have Bandits headed for you.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>What about Maverick?</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <parenthetical>(to room)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Tell him there's nothing he can do for Maverick. Not in a (goddamn) F- 18.</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <parenthetical>(to Comm Tech)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Launch search and rescue-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>F295 CONTINUED: F295</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Negative. Not with those bandits in the air. We're not losing anyone else.</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>But Maverick-</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>He knew the risk.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(to Comms)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Get 'em home now.</dialogue>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger, you are not to engage. Repeat, do not engage.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>G295 INT. F-18S - INTERCUT G295</stage_direction>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2 (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger Two. Return to carrier. Acknowledge.</dialogue>
    <character>PAYBACK</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster, those bandits are closing. We can-not go back.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>COMANCHE, PICTURE.</dialogue>
    <character>COMMAND</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger, Comanche, bandits 30 east. Hot on you. Flow west to evade.</dialogue>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster... He's gone.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And off of Rooster's eyes we CUT TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FROZEN LAKE - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SCORCHED PARACHUTE drapes the ragged ice... as ANGLE REVEALS Maverick lies sprawled, still clipped in, alive. At the distant RUMBLING of the facility implosion, he stirs, coughs, tastes blood in his mouth. He looks down, sees his radio is shattered. He hears the sound of distant helicopter, growing louder, realizes he's out in the open. He has to move. He scrambled to detach his chute.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A296 EXT. SKIES - MORNING A296</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A MENACING HIND HELICOPTER, a venerable cold-war relic that will never die, bristling with guns and rockets.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B296 EXT. FROZEN LAKE - MORNING B296</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick is running with nowhere to go - the barren trees providing little cover. He's a sitting duck. The Hind comes into view and her .50 cal rotary cannon opens fire, CHEWING INTO the ice and trees and snow with a HELLSTORM OF LEAD. The angle is bad and the hind has to come around, buying Maverick precious seconds. He reaches a GNARLED FALLEN TREE at lake's edge. He tries to wedge himself behind it, if only to hide. Nothing out here will stop that cannon. Over Maverick, the Hind wheels slowly around, searching for him. It's only a matter of time.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C296 EXT. HIND POV - MORNING C296</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CREW POV of the ground below. No sign of Maverick. But they'll find him soon enough.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. EDGE OF FROZEN LAKE - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick stays pressed behind the tree as the Hind approaches, flies overhead.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A298 EXT. HIND POV - MORNING A298</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CREW POV over the barrel of the cannon. There's Maverick. Exposed. Done for. A HELMETED CREWMAN - his face hidden from us - swivels the gun patiently. HIS HAND CHARGES THE GUN.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B298 EXT. FROZEN LAKE - MORNING B298</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick isn't dying on his back. He leaps up, runs, as a stream of hot red tracers shred the log and follow him like a laser pointer, gaining on him until: BOOM. The Hind explodes in mid air. Maverick stops in his tracks. What the- B298 CONTINUED: B298 An F-18 streaks past.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>No...</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. ROOSTER'S F-18</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster banks, looking down. He can see Mav's chute, but not Mav. Then an ALARM BLARES.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Oh shit.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A299 EXT. MOUNTAINTOP - MORNING A299</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A radar guided missile launcher, it's silhouette familiar to us by now, swivels around and lets fly with a SAM, traveling at MACH 5.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B299 EXT. SKIES OVER MOUNTAINS - MORNING B299</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster throws flares, tries to evade, but he too is doomed.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C299 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT C299</stage_direction>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger two is hit.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone pounds a fist on the panel.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D299 INT. PHOENIX'S F-18 D299</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Phoenix waits to hear her friend's voice in vain.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger two, come in. Dagger Two, do you copy?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>E299 INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - MORNING E299</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The shock on his face as he hears:</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger Two, come in...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman hits his comm. E299 CONTINUED: E299</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Dagger spare request permission to launch and fly air cover.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A painfully long wait.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Negative, spare...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman hangs his head.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FROZEN LAKE - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Scrambling out of the rubble, Maverick sees Rooster's F-18 ON FIRE and trailing heavy smoke, as Rooster EJECTS. His jet vanishes behind the ridge before slamming into the ground, sending up a plume of BLACK SMOKE. Maverick immediately starts running, tracking the path of Rooster's parachute...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FORESTED BASE OF RIDGE - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Gripped with panic, Maverick sprints through the trees, seeing Rooster's chute disappear among them...</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FOREST CLEARING - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>He emerges in a patch of clearing where Rooster's on his knees, burying his parachute, still recovering from a brutal landing. Both men are pretty banged up, exhausted, but relieved to see one another.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You all right?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I'll manage.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Then Maverick shoves him.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>What the hell?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What are you doing here?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>What am I doing here?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You think I took that SAM so you could end up down here with me? You should be back on the carrier by now.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I saved your life.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I saved your life. That was the whole point. WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU EVEN THINKING?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>YOU TOLD ME NOT TO THINK.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Whatever Maverick's next words were, they hang in his throat. The lesson he's been teaching has at long last landed.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Hey... It's good to see you.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>It's good to see you, too... So what's the plan?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>What does your training tell you?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Really? We're in class now?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick waits. Rooster sighs.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I ping my ESAT, stay hidden till dark, then make for the extraction point.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Where's the extraction point?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <parenthetical>(gestures)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That way. Seven, eight hours on foot.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(thinks)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Even if our ride is waiting, we'll freeze to death before we get there. That's if the enemy doesn't find us first... We're not going to the extraction point.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>No, we are not going to the extraction point.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Then where are we going?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. FOREST RIDGE - HOSTILE COUNTRY - LATER - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A distant THUP-THUP of ENEMY HELICOPTERS... SCOPE POV: Chaos and the fog of war. The airstrip's runways are cratered, hangars collapsed. ENEMY BASE TROOPS are scattered trying to put out fires... Mav sweeps the area with his scope, then looks at Rooster.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You're not serious.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>But Maverick's look says he is.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. ENEMY AIRSTRIP - MINUTES LATER - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav slinks along a thicket of trees by a perimeter fence. Near them, a FUEL DEPOT burns out of control, spewing heavy black smoke over the area, covering it in a THICK HAZE. Mav uses his scope to take another look... He hands him the scope, nods him in the right direction... SCOPE POV: An open-ended CEMENT AIRCRAFT BUNKER, where an F- 14 TOMCAT sits. Clearly prepped for flight, loaded with missiles, and with support equipment still hooked up.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You've gotta be shittin' me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav shrugs.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>An F14?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I shot down three migs in one of those.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>When was that? World War I? We don't even know if that bag'a ass can fly.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Let's find out.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav heads off, leaving Rooster to contemplate:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <parenthetical>(to himself)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You came back for him, dumbass.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And he follows.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. AIRCRAFT BUNKER - MOMENTS LATER - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Chaos all around in the aftermath of the missile strike. Maverick and Rooster walk briskly toward the plane, praying no one will notice.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A307 INT. AIRCRAFT BUNKER - MOMENTS LATER - MORNING A307</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The jet has a START-CART the size of a dumpster, attached via a large power cable and huge forced-air induction hose. Maverick inspects the start cart. Hopes. He pushes the button and it growls to life. Thank God.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. AIRCRAFT BUNKER - MOMENTS LATER - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Geared up with harnesses and masks, Mav waves Rooster to the Start-Cart.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Ok, let me see. Okay.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(shows signal)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>When I give you the signal for air, here, flip this switch 'til the needle gets to 120. When I start the engine, you're gonna shut this off, you're gonna pull all the pins. You're gonna disconnect everything.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick goes for the plane. Rooster lingers.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Mav, wait...There's something I \* need to tell you. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Tell me later. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>There may not be a later. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav waits anxiously. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>You were right. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>About what? \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>About the academy. You were right \* to pull my papers. I wasn't ready. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT) \*</character>
    <dialogue>Well you're ready now. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>Thank you for saving my life. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER (ALT) (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>Either way, thank you for saving my \* life. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>I haven't saved it yet. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>(points to the cart) \* Remember what I told you. \* And he rushes for the plane. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Once I'm up, stow the ladder.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick climbs the ladder, hops in the driver's seat, closes the forward step and reorients himself to the cockpit as Rooster closes the ladder.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Okay. Wow. It's been a minute, huh Mav?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster pulls the CHOCK BLOCKS from the wheels and then runs to the start cart.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Okay, okay.... Fuel. Battery.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick gives Rooster the air signal. Rooster flips switch. CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <parenthetical>(watches dial)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>C'mon, c'mon.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>It gets to 120 and Rooster gives the thumbs up. Maverick starts the engine. It sputters, fails to start.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>That's not good.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Come on.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Come on. Come on. Come on.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Come on sweetheart. Come on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Enemy truck drives by the hangar.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Mav, let's go. Come on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav hits the start button again. The engine whines slowly to life.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>This could actually work.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster rushes to unhook the start cart from the plane.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Let's go, let's go.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster scrambles up the onto the F14 and into the cockpit. Rooster looks at the cockpit instruments.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>My God, this thing is so old.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick pushes forward on the throttle.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Canopy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster buckles up.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Clear.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The jets exits the hangar. The canopy closes.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. ENEMY AIRSTRIP - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick looks at cockpit instruments. Maverick applies the brakes.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We're stopping. Why are we stopping, Mav?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Just give me a second. Give me a second.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster spots an enemy tank coming towards them.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Uh Mav. There's a guy on a tank. Big gun. Staring at us.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yep.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The tank passes them and Rooster looks down as he salutes. Maverick switches to engage the WINGS. The wings expand.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Both runways are cratered, Mav. ALT: Are both runways crated, Mav? ALT: It looks like both runways are cratered, Mav.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Mav, this is a taxiway. A very short taxiway.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Uh huh. Yeah.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>How we gonna get this bag'a ass in the air?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Just hang on.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick pushes on the throttle. The afterburners go on full.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Cause this bag'a ass is about to go ballistic.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: The jet begins to accelerate down the runway.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Holy shit.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(under breath)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>C'mon, c'mon.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav squeezes every ounce of lift from the plane The F-14 soars into the air.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT./INT. F-14 - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Rooster's ESAT on his harness. Rooster thinks a beat and activates it.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A new alarm sounds.</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>Sir. We're receiving a signal from Rooster's ESAT... But there seems to be a malfunction...</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>Have you lost him?</dialogue>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>No, sir. Signal is strong, but...</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>But what?</dialogue>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>But... He's supersonic.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Everyone trades confounded looks, confused. Cyclone and Warlock move to look at the screen. Sure enough, a dot representing Rooster is hauling ass toward the sea.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>He's airborne.</dialogue>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>In what?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, overwatch reports an F-14 Tomcat is airborne and on course for our position.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Warlock and Cyclone share a look.</scene_description>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>It can't be-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The both look at the dot on the screen. Hondo stifles a knowing smile.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick...</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>He's still alive.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Warlock almost smiles, until:</scene_description>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 2</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, overwatch is reporting two fifth gen fighters on course to intercept that F 14.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Warlock and Cyclone share a new look this one of grim certainty.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>God help them.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. F-14 - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rooster surveys the back seat in frustration, no idea what's what or what to do. There's a big circular RIO DISPLAY in front of him, but it's dark.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster. Get us in touch with the \* boat. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster toggles the radio. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>I'm working on it. Everything's \* dead back here. What do I do? Talk \* me through this. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>First, the radio. Throw the UHF two \* circuit breaker. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: Rooster looks. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>There's three hundred breakers back \* here, anything more specific? \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>I dunno, that was your dad's \* department. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>Alright, I'll figure it out. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster starts toggling breakers, then sees: \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>MAV, FIVE O'CLOCK LOW, TALLY TWO. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>(alt) \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAV, TALLY TWO, FIVE O'CLOCK LOW. \*</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick looks and, to his horror, sees TWO FIFTH GEN FIGHTER \* approaching. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>What do we do? \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>What do you mean what do we do? \* Those are fifth gen fighters. We're \* in a fifty year old aircraft. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The planes close into an escort formation. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>Well here they come. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Just be cool. If they knew who we \* were we'd be dead already. Masks \* on. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They scramble to put on their masks. The lead enemy plane \* pulls along side. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>Remember, we're on the same team. \* Just wave and smile. Wave and \* smile. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster and Mav wave. Maverick signals, points to his ear and \* gives a thumbs down. "Radio out." \* The enemy pilot signals. \* CONTINUED: (2)</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>What's that mean? \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>I have no idea. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The pilot signals something else. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>What's that? \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Nope. I don't know what that one is \* either. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster watches the second plane drop back. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>His wingman is moving into a \* weapon's envelope. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>If anything happens, grab those \* rings above your head. You see \* them? That's the ejection handle. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>Bull. Shit. The chutes in this \* thing were probably packed in the \* late eighties. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>You have a point. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>(alt) \* Good point. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>How fast is this thing? \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Very fast. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>We're ten minutes from the carrier. \* Can we outrun these guys? \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>We can't outrun missiles and guns. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>(alt) \* We can't outrun missiles and \* bullets. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>Then it's a dogfight. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: (3)</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>In an F-14. Against fifth gen \* fighters. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>It's not the plane, it's the pilot. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And that stops Mav cold. The pilot in the other plane signals \* again. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>Rooster... \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>You'd take 'em on if I wasn't here. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>(alt) \* Go after 'em. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>But you are here. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>You're Pete Maverick Mitchell, god \* dammit. You shot down three MIGs in \* one's these. You can do this. Now \* take us home. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick grips the stick and throttle, unsure of what to do. \* The enemy pilot begins to distance himself. \*</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, Mav. Don't think. Just do. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT) \*</character>
    <dialogue>Tell me the second you see smoke in \* the air. \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ALT) (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>Whatever you do, don't touch the \* flares. \*</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT./INT. F-14/FIFTH GEN DOGFIGHT - CONTINUOUS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <character>STAGE 1 - ABOVE MOUNTAINS (GREEN WITH SNOW)</character>
    <dialogue>SET #1: VR202 (SKY) - CHINA MOA</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Maverick pulls a hard right while opening fire at the Fifth Gen in a pre-emptive attack, ripping open the left engine and sending it into a descent.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Nice, nice, nice.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The second Fifth Gen is surprised. Mav continues to move. The Fifth Gen recovers and launches a heat-seeking missile.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>SMOKE IN THE AIR. SMOKE IN THE AIR,</dialogue>
    <character>MAV.</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick dives down towards the smoking Fifth Gen and breaks left directly in front of it. The missile heading for them diverts to the higher temp Fifth Gen destroying it in a colossal explosion as the F-14 narrowly misses the blast.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Nice, Mav, nice. SPLASH ONE. SPLASH ONE.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The Fifth Gen pilot shakes his head, angry.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>AA313 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING AA313</stage_direction>
    <character>COMMS-CREW TECH 1</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, overwatch reports the F-14 has engaged. One bandit is down.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Reactions from the room - a few men even cheer. But not Cyclone, Warlock or Hondo.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>BB313 EXT. SKIES/INT. F-14 BB313</stage_direction>
    <character>STAGE 2 - ABOVE MOUNTAINS (GREEN WITH SNOW)</character>
    <dialogue>SET #1: VR202 (SKY) - CHINA MOA</dialogue>
    <dialogue>The Fifth Gen drops into frame, fires another missile. The F- 14 is in a dive.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>He's on us, he's on us. Here comes another one. SMOKE IN THE AIR. SMOKE IN THE AIR.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <scene_description>BB313 CONTINUED: BB313 Maverick pulls the emergency wing deploy lever, immediately deploying the F-14's wing spread sending the F-14 into a neck- breaking vertical climb. Rooster shoots off the flares and the missile detonates just below the F-14 as they pull upwards. Maverick uses their energy to roll inverted, back into burner, pulling down and around on the Fifth Gen putting it in their target. Mav fires the sidewinder. Missile lock. A moment of celebration, they're going to get a splash two.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We got him. We got him. We got him.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You got him. You got him. You got him.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>CC313 EXT. SKIES CC313</stage_direction>
    <character>STAGE 3 - ABOVE MOUNTAINS (GREEN WITH SNOW)</character>
    <dialogue>SET #1: VR202 (SKY) - CHINA MOA</dialogue>
    <dialogue>The Fifth Gen pulls a maneuver that we've never seen before: It uses its thrust vectors to fly vertical and then in a close-range LOOP AROUND THE MISSILE.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>DD313 INT. F-14/EXT. SKIES INTERCUT DD313</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Whip pan to Rooster and Maverick who have never seen such a move.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>HOLY SHIT.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <character>WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?</character>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <character>DID YOU SEE THAT?</character>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh my god. We're gonna die. We're gonna die.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <character>HOLY SHIT. WE'RE DEAD.</character>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, we're in trouble Mav. We're in trouble.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <scene_description>DD313 CONTINUED: DD313 Oh shit, do some of that pilot shit. They fly by the Fifth Gen so it's behind them again.</scene_description>
    <character>END STAGE 3 - ABOVE MOUNTAINS (GREEN WITH SNOW)</character>
    <dialogue>STAGE 4 - GREEN CANYON</dialogue>
    <character>SET #2: VR202 (CANYON) - MIDDLE FORK FEATHER RIVER</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick pushes for the advantage again.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, do some of that pilot shit, Mav.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick flies upwards then splits the throttle pushing the F- 14 into a pirouette at full power. The F-14 comes down behind the Fifth Gen and Maverick fires a missile.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, get him, get him.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Missile lock. Again, it looks like they've got him. The Fifth Gen releases flares in a firework display of defense that takes out the missile.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Oh shit, shit. This isn't good.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>This guy is good.</dialogue>
    <character>END STAGE 4 - GREEN CANYON</character>
    <dialogue>STAGE 5 - GREEN CANYON</dialogue>
    <character>SET: MIDDLE FORK FEATHER RIVER</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick pursues the Fifth Gen as it dives down into a canyon.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We're out of missiles, Mav. Go to guns.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Out of missiles, going to guns.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Going to guns.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EE313 INT. CANYON EE313</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>In a close-range weaving dogfight chase Maverick fires GUNS at the Fifth Gen.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Come on, you got him.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You got him Mav.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Watch the wall, watch the wall.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Side of the mountain, side of the mountain.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Wall-wall-wall.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I see it. I see it.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know, I got it, I got it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The Fifth Gen evades, pulling severe G's around the bends, working like crazy. Mav's rounds keep missing as the Fifth Gen continues to slice through the canyon. Mav hustles to keep up and get the Fifth jet in his target. Mav and Rooster struggle against the G-forces, no G-suits to aid them, huffing breaths to ward off a blackout. Mav's rounds are almost at zero. He knows he's down to his last attack. The Fifth Gen continues to weave in and out of their target, in and out. Mav focuses in and fires his last bullets. He HITS the Fifth Gen with all of them. It descends and explodes as it crashes into the ground.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A313 INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING A313</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Everyone reacts to the radio call that comes through:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (OVER RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>Rough Rider, this is uh... Ghostrider. We have repossessed an enemy Tomcat. Splash two bandits. We are inbound, tracking south. Hold your fire.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A313 CONTINUED: A313 Cyclone and Warlock share a look, stunned. Hondo smiles.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>That crazy motherfu-</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B313 EXT. SKIES - MORNING B313</stage_direction>
    <character>STAGE 6 - GREEN CANYON TO OCEAN</character>
    <dialogue>SET #2: VR202 (CANYON) - TBD</dialogue>
    <dialogue>The F-14 roars into frame transitioning from mountains to the ocean below.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. F-14 - CONTINUOUS - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <character>STAGE 7 - OCEAN</character>
    <dialogue>SET #3: PISMO BEACH (OPTION 1) OR SAN CLEMENTE (OPTION 2)</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>We can't outrun this guy. We have \* to eject. \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>MAV- \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>We need altitude. Pull that \* ejection handle the second I tell \* you- \*</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>MAV, WAIT- \*</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK \*</character>
    <dialogue>THERE'S NO OTHER WAY. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mav pulls back on the stick. As they climb: \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <dialogue>EJECT, EJECT, EJECT. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster grabs the handle. Nothing happens. \*</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK (CONT'D) \*</character>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER \*</character>
    <dialogue>IT'S NOT WORKING. \*</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And Maverick realizes they're doomed. \*</scene_description>
    <character>END STAGE 7 - OCEAN</character>
    <dialogue>STAGE 8 - OCEAN</dialogue>
    <character>SET #3: PISMO BEACH (OPTION 1) OR SAN CLEMENTE (OPTION 2)</character>
    <dialogue>The Fifth Gen flies right past them canopy to canopy, spinning upwards and diving back down on them.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Maverick weaves in hard cuts back n' forth to evade as the Fifth Gen fires bullets in a streak across the ocean.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Gunfire finally hits the F-14 as it flies low across the water. Mav keeps pulling hard right.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>We got no more flares, Mav. What you got?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Mav, we can't shake him, we can't shake him anymore.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick does the only thing he can do and pulls up hard to escape the Fifth Gen, but the Fifth Gen follows. Another MISSILE LOCK. The sound of doom.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>He's got a missile lock, he's got a missile lock, Mav.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What have we got, Mav?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>We got nothing.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry, Rooster.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(alt)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry Goose.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The Fifth Gen's missile appears from its belly. And suddenly the Fifth Gen jet EXPLODES along with its missile. An F-18 streaks out from the shrapnel and smoke.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HANGMAN'S F-18 - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hangman smiles.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, this is your savior speaking. Please fasten your seatbelts, return your tray tables to their upright and locked position and prepare for landing.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. F-14 - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <character>STAGE 9 - OCEAN</character>
    <dialogue>SET #3: PISMO BEACH (OPTION 1) OR SAN CLEMENTE (OPTION 2)</dialogue>
    <dialogue>As he pulls along side.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Hangman... you look good.</dialogue>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>I am good, Rooster. I'm very good.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick and Rooster watch as Hangman's F-18 CIRCLES back, doing a hotshot twirl of the wings, a victory roll.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. COMMAND CENTER - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>All eyes are on the horizon. Two planes inbound. As Cyclone and Warlock are leaving the room:</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Get Hangman down first. Maverick may burn the deck.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON: Hondo, realizing. Without a word, he runs from the command center.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. DECK - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Hondo emerges on the deck where the crew is awaiting Hangman's arrival. Emergency crews are standing by. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>The minute Hangman touches down, pull the trip wires and have the barricade stanchions ready.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The crew just stare at him.</scene_description>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>HE DOESN'T HAVE A GODDAMN TAILHOOK.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The crew realizes and scrambles.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BRIDGE - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone, Warlock and OFFICERS stand in the BRIDGE, BINOCS UP, watching as Hangman's F-18 comes in for a landing. CLOSE ON: His tail hook snagging the arrest cable, his plane jerking to a stop. The Deck Crew rush in to clear the way for Maverick. A ballet of precise emergency response. Hundreds of SAILORS work to remove Trap-Wires and raise Barricade Stanchions, lift up a 15-foot-high NYLON BARRICADE, stretching a massive net across the width of the landing deck. The F-14 circles.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A320 INT. BRIDGE/F-14 - MORNING A320</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>And in this moment of supreme tension, Maverick gets a little glimmer in his eye. One we've seen before.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Rough Rider, Ghostrider here. We are requesting a tower fly-by.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone and Warlock share a look. Is this a joke?</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B320 INT. F-14 B320</stage_direction>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>What? Now?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Could be the last one.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You can't be serious.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>B320 CONTINUED: B320</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You keep saying that, but it doesn't change much.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>(into radio)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rough Rider, I say again-</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C320 INT. BRIDGE - MORNING C320</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Cyclone has the radio now.</scene_description>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Ghostrider, this is Cyclone. Put that bird on the deck now.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK (ON RADIO)</character>
    <dialogue>-odswor- -strider- -adio</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>D320 INT. F-14 D320</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick is smiling, speaking in broken jibbering.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>-aking up. Do -oo -ead?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. BRIDGE - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <character>CYCLONE</character>
    <dialogue>Does he even want to land?</dialogue>
    <character>WARLOCK</character>
    <dialogue>He asked permission. That's progress.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Cyclone sighs, nods begrudgingly to the Comm Tech who, despite everything, has to grin a little as:</scene_description>
    <character>LSO</character>
    <dialogue>Ghostrider, pattern is clear, you are cleared for flyby.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A321 INT. F-14 A321</stage_direction>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Huh. That's a first.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster knocks his helmet repeatedly on the canopy.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Why did I bother saving your ass?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B321 INT. BRIDGE - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING B321</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Maverick blazes by the tower at high speed, rocking the tower. Cyclone shakes his head.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>C321 EXT./INT. F-14 - NEARING USS THEODORE R - MORNING C321</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Mav's working the stick and feathering the throttle. He lowers the landing gear. A new light comes on.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Shit.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>What? What more shit could there possibly be?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>No nose gear.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rooster looks at the carrier, then out at the sea.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>What say we just eject?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>There's a good chance the chutes we have on were packed in the late eighties, but sure. Go for it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>I think I'll stay with the plane.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Just as bad, really.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>You can do this.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I appreciate your confidence.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. DECK - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MOMENTS LATER - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <character>LSO</character>
    <dialogue>One mile. Call the ball.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Ghostrider. Ball. No hook. No nose gear.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: And an engine fails.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Please tell me that wasn't an engine.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Correction... ball, no hook, no nose gear... single engine.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Of course it was an engine.</dialogue>
    <character>LSO</character>
    <dialogue>A little power.... Come left... Easy with it...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The deck of the Roosevelt now approaching rapidly... as it slips beneath the NOSE of the jet.</scene_description>
    <character>LSO</character>
    <dialogue>CUT, CUT, CUT.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The engine cuts out and everything goes SILENT.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. DECK - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>As the battered Tomcat SMASHES DOWN, sliding across the deck on its nose, SHOWERING SPARKS, SPEWING SMOKE, until it SLAMS INTO THE NYLON NET, ripping it forwards before snapping to a violent halt. Finally. Safe home.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. DECK - MOMENTS LATER - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>EMERGENCY CREWS rush the jet as Mav and Rooster climb out. Maverick and Rooster check on each other.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You ok?</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix, Bob, Payback, Fanboy and Hondo all come rushing. Maverick and Hondo reunite.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>You think you can fix it?</dialogue>
    <character>HONDO</character>
    <dialogue>Easy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED: Then other SAILORS arrive, mobbing them. Maverick gazes up to Vultures Row, spying Cyclone and Warlock. Cyclone gives him a simple, grateful nod. Rooster turns to see Hangman arriving. His face mock-falls:</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>Well shit... you're alive.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They shakes hands. That's enough.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Chalked yourself another kill.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hangman smiles.</scene_description>
    <character>HANGMAN</character>
    <dialogue>That makes two.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Phoenix steps in.</scene_description>
    <character>PHOENIX</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick has five. Makes him an ace.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And Hangman's smile fades. Just a bit. Rooster turns, looking for Maverick in the crowd. Finds him, pushes toward him.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Captain Mitchell... Captain Mitchell, SIR.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick turns, come face to face with Mav.</scene_description>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>Sir, I-</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And Maverick grabs him before he can say another word, pulls him close. Rooster is not sure what to do for a moment. Then he hugs him back.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Thanks for saving my life.</dialogue>
    <character>ROOSTER</character>
    <dialogue>It's what my dad would've done.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And as the two men embrace, shutting out the rest of the world we PULL BACK TO:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. DECK - USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT - MORNING</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Filled with jubilant SAILORS, the whole ship celebrates the mission's return. Maverick joins Rooster and Hangman, sharing laughter and embraces. All of them, allies at last.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>A327 EXT. HARD DECK - LATE AFTERNOON A327</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>To establish.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>B327 INT. HARD DECK - LATE AFTERNOON B327</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The place is quiet. Almost deserted. Maverick enters, expecting to find Penny, surprised to find A BARTENDER, JIMMY. Off Maverick's expression:</scene_description>
    <character>TIME CUT:</character>
    <dialogue>Maverick at the bar now.</dialogue>
    <character>BARTENDER JIMMY</character>
    <dialogue>Hey Mav.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Is Penny here?</dialogue>
    <character>BARTENDER JIMMY</character>
    <dialogue>Took Amelia sailing.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Gone? Where?</dialogue>
    <character>BARTENDER JIMMY</character>
    <dialogue>Wherever they felt like, she said.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Did she say when she'd be back.</dialogue>
    <character>BARTENDER JIMMY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm guessing whenever she feels like.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick nods. He looks around the bar, heads for the door. With nowhere else to go, he goes:</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MAVERICK'S HANGAR - DAY - DAYS LATER</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Where Maverick holds a photo of the moment on the Roosevelt with Rooster and the others, adding it to his wall of memories, medals, accomplishments - a life well-lived, if somewhat incomplete. Among the pictures is one of Goose and Maverick in the bloom of their youth - their whole lives ahead of them. Maverick steps back, takes in the space - the P-51, the airstream, the bikes... The sound of a car OS. He turns in time to see it coming to a stop. The door opens and out climbs Rooster. From the passenger door emerges Phoenix. Emerging from the back is Amelia and, finally Penny. She takes in the sight of the hangar - along with everyone else - clearly a place they have never seen before. CLOSE ON: Mav and Penny as they meet by the P-51.</scene_description>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I heard you were looking for me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Maverick nods. A confession.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Good trip?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Great. You?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I could tell you, but...</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Forget I asked.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They both smile. After a beat.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I missed you.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I know.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They kiss. CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <parenthetical>(re hangar)</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Whatta'ya think?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>It's... very you.</dialogue>
    <character>(ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>It's just like I pictured.</dialogue>
    <character>(ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>I'm still taking it in.</dialogue>
    <character>(ALT)</character>
    <dialogue>You know..? It works.</dialogue>
    <character>END ALTS</character>
    <dialogue>TIME CUT as Phoenix holds two model planes, demonstrating air- to-air combat to a very interested Amelia.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>As Maverick walks Penny around the other lady in his life - the P-51.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>As Rooster looks over Maverick's workspace, the pictures of Maverick and Ice, of Maverick and Goose, of Rooster as a boy... Topped off by Maverick and Rooster on the carrier.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>Rooster turns, looks at the make-shift family taking shape in this makeshift home...</dialogue>
    <dialogue>And he smiles.</dialogue>
    <dialogue>As the sound of a roaring engine takes us to:</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. P-51 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Penny snugly in the back seat, Maverick at the controls.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>How're you doing back there?</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm amazed something this old can still fly.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>C'mon, don't say old. It's vintage. One more time, if anything goes wrong and it probably won't. But if it does, I'll just open the canopy-</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Uh huh.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CONTINUED:</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>When that's gone, you just undo your seatbelt-</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Right...</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>I'll roll her over and dump you out.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>You know this isn't working on me.</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Just remember to pull that handle on your parachute.</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Pete-</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Penny-</dialogue>
    <character>PENNY</character>
    <dialogue>Will you ever grow up?</dialogue>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>Some day...</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And that glimmer comes to his eye.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>But not today.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>And he yanks the stick hard.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. P-51</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>And the plane banks away from us with Penny screaming, laughing. But mostly screaming.</scene_description>
    <character>MAVERICK</character>
    <dialogue>JIBE-HO.</dialogue>
    <character>BLACK</character>
  </scene>
</script>
More than 30 years after graduating from Top Gun, United States Navy Captain Pete "Maverick" Mitchell is a decorated test pilot whose repeated insubordination has kept him from flag rank. When Rear Admiral Chester "Hammer" Cain plans to cancel the hypersonic "Darkstar" scramjet program Maverick is testing on the grounds that it has not reached the contract specification of Mach 10, Maverick unilaterally changes the target speed for that day's test from Mach 9 to Mach 10 and commences the test early in order to prove Cain wrong. During the test flight, Maverick successfully reaches Mach 10 in the Darkstar prototype; however, the prototype aircraft is destroyed when Maverick cannot resist pushing his airspeed beyond Mach 10. After the flight, Cain tells Maverick that he would be grounded if not for Admiral Tom "Iceman" Kazansky, Maverick's friend and former Top Gun rival. Iceman, now commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, has assigned Maverick to the Top Gun school at NAS North Island. The Navy has been ordered to destroy an unsanctioned uranium enrichment plant before it becomes operational. The plant, located in an underground bunker at the end of a canyon, is defended by surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), GPS jammers, and fifth-generation Su-57 fighters as well as older F-14 Tomcats. Maverick devises a plan employing two pairs of F/A-18E/F Super Hornets armed with laser-guided bombs, but instead of participating in the strike, he is to train an elite group of Top Gun graduates assembled by Air Boss Vice Admiral Beau "Cyclone" Simpson. Maverick dogfights his skeptical students and prevails in every contest, winning their respect. Two of the students clash: Lieutenants Jake "Hangman" Seresin and Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw—son of Maverick's deceased best friend and RIO Nick "Goose" Bradshaw. Rooster dislikes Hangman's cavalier attitude, while Hangman criticizes Rooster's cautious flying. Maverick reunites with former girlfriend Penny Benjamin, to whom he reveals that he promised Rooster's dying mother that Rooster would not become a pilot. Rooster, unaware of the promise, angrily resents Maverick for blocking his Naval Academy application—impeding his military career—and blames him for his father's death. Maverick is reluctant to further interfere with Rooster's career, but the alternative is to send him on the extremely dangerous mission. He tells his doubts to Iceman, who has terminal throat cancer. Iceman tells him, "It's time to let go" and reassures him that both the Navy and Rooster need Maverick. Iceman dies soon after, and after an F/A-18F crashes during training, Cyclone removes Maverick as instructor. He relaxes the mission parameters so they are easier to execute but make escape much more difficult. During Cyclone's announcement, Maverick makes an unauthorized flight through the course with even stricter parameters than the original and hitting the target without a wingman, proving that it can be done. Despite the act of insubordination, Cyclone reluctantly appoints Maverick as team leader. Maverick flies the lead F/A-18E, accompanied by a buddy-lasing F/A-18F flown by Lieutenant Natasha "Phoenix" Trace and WSO Lieutenant Robert "Bob" Floyd. Rooster leads the second strike pair, which includes Lieutenant Reuben "Payback" Fitch and WSO Lieutenant Mickey "Fanboy" Garcia. The four jets launch from an aircraft carrier, and Tomahawk cruise missiles destroy the nearby air base as they approach. The teams destroy the plant, but the SAMs open fire during their escape. Rooster runs out of countermeasures, and Maverick sacrifices his plane to protect him from an incoming strike. Believing Maverick to be dead, all jets are ordered back to the carrier, but Rooster disobeys and returns to find that Maverick ejected and is being pursued by an Mi-24 attack helicopter. After destroying the gunship, Rooster is shot down by a SAM and ejects. The two rendezvous and steal an F-14 from the damaged air base. Maverick and Rooster destroy two intercepting Su-57s, but a third attacks as they run out of ammunition and countermeasures. Hangman unexpectedly arrives in time to shoot it down, and the planes return safely. Later, Rooster helps Maverick work on his P-51 Mustang. Rooster looks at a photo of their mission's success, pinned alongside a photo of his late father and a young Maverick, as Penny and Maverick fly off in the P-51.