7 Must-Watch Tom Cruise Films as 'Top Gun' Turns 40

By Becca Johnson - May 25, 2026

Film - Feature

2026 marks 40 years since Tony Scott’s Top Gun (1986) hit the big screen; a beloved film that not only spawned a legacy sequel that somehow surpassed it, but a love affair between audiences and Tom Cruise. From the Mission Impossible franchise to gothic horror romance Interview With the Vampire, Minority Report to Eyes Wide Shut, Cruise is an actor not only known for his action flicks and jaw-dropping stunt work, but his ability to mould his talent towards multiple genres and stories. Today, we explore some of his less talked about work that solidifies his career as a highly commendable one.

1. Days of Thunder (1990)

If you like Top Gun, it’s pretty likely that you’ll find something enjoyable within Days of Thunder, too. Not only is it also directed by Tony Scott, but it applies similar themes and ideas to the world of car racing. Cruise plays a talented but unproven stock car driver named Cole Trickle, who gets a break and with the guidance of a veteran, turns heads on the track. The young hotshot develops a rivalry with a fellow racer that threatens his career when the two smash their cars. But with the help of his doctor, Cole just might overcome his injuries - and his fear. The story may not be as gripping as Top Gun, but with entertaining race sequences, stellar performances and even a bit of corny romance, it’s certainly one to watch.

2. American Made (2017)

Releasing in 2017, American Made is a true story brought to the screen by Doug Liman, a director Cruise has collaborated with more than once. Cruise plays Barry Seal, a TWA pilot who is recruited by the CIA to provide reconnaissance on the communist threat in Central America. He soon finds himself in charge of one of the biggest covert CIA operations in the history of the United States. Cruise brings his signature energy to the central role, and is backed by a tremendous supporting cast including Jesse Plemons (Bugonia), Domhnall Gleeson (About Time) and Caleb Landry Jones (Get Out). Strong action, character moments and familial drama ensure American Made boasts more than just that Cruise charisma.

3. Risky Business (1983)

If action’s not quite your vibe, Cruise’s early coming of age comedy Risky Business may be one to hit play on tonight. Cruise plays Joel Goodson, a college-bound 17-year-old who is left home alone in the wealthy Chicago suburbs when his parents go away. With a Porsche at his disposal, he decides he’s been good for too long and it’s time to enjoy himself. After an unfortunate incident with the Porsche, Joel must raise some cash - in a risky way. Risky Business proves that Cruise has been talented from the get-go. If you haven’t seen this flick yet, you’re likely already familiar with the shirt and socks dance scene. With plenty of laughs, sharp commentary and intriguing coming of age themes, Risky Business is an 80’s gem.

4. The Outsiders (1983)

Releasing in the same year as the above, The Outsiders doesn’t just showcase a strong early performance from Cruise, but Ralph Macchio (The Karate Kid), Rob Lowe (St Elmo’s Fire) and C. Thomas Howell (E.T) to name just a few. Set in 1960’s Tulsa, class divisions ignite a violent rivalry between the working-class Greasers and the privileged Sons. When a deadly encounter forces two Greasers, Ponyboy and Johnny to flee, their struggle for survival and redemption exposes the fragile innocence and enduring bonds of youth on the wrong side of town. Though this film might have the lowest amount of Cruise screen time on this list, but the stunning cinematography, fantastic cast and deep themes are enough to distract from that.

5. Jerry Maguire (1996)

It may be one of the most well-known films on the list, but it’s always worth recommending the film that gave us the iconic lines ‘show me the money’ and ‘you had me at hello’. Jerry Maguire used to be a typical sports agent: willing to do just about anything he could to get the biggest possible contracts for his clients, plus a nice commission for himself. One day, he suddenly has second thoughts about what he’s really doing, and when he voices these doubts, he winds up losing his jobs and all bar one of his clients. Starring opposite Renee Zellweger (Bridget Jones’s Diary), the pair have excellent chemistry bringing to light a gorgeous romance. With sports drama and character study complimenting that romance, Jerry Maguire is quite the all-rounder that showcases one of Cruise’s best turns.

6. A Few Good Men (1992)

Jack Nicholson (The Shining) may steal the spotlight with his iconic ‘you can’t handle the truth!’ monologue, but if you’re crossing off must-see Cruise films, A Few Good Men is an imperative viewing. This time around, he plays a cocky military lawyer, who with his co-counsel (Demi Moore), is assigned a murder case. The pair uncover a hazing ritual that could implicate high-ranking officials such as the shady Col. Nathan Jessop (Nicholson). Masterfully directed by one of the greats Rob Reiner, A Few Good Men is a compelling court drama that engages you from start to finish. Cruise may be playing his signature cheeky chappy, but he does it well. If you take anything away from this list, it’s to hit play on this title immediately.

7. Legend (1985)

Bringing the list to a close is perhaps the boldest movie of all Cruise’s work; a mythical fantasy film directed by Ridley Scott (Alien). Set in a timeless forest inhabited by fairies, goblins, unicorns and mortals, this fantastical story follows a mystical forest dweller, chosen by fate, to undertake a heroic quest. He must save the beautiful Princess Lili (Mia Sara) and defeat the demonic Lord of Darkness, or the world will be plunged into a never-ending ice age. If you’re a fan of whimsy and wonder, Legend is a no brainer. If you’re not intrigued by a fantasy forest, Ridley Scott’s direction or seeing Cruise take on a truly unique role, the iconic performance from Tim Curry (The Rocky Horror Picture Show) as the infamous Lord of Darkness should sway you. 

Love him or hate him, it’s undeniable that Tom Cruise has had a killer career full of greats in multiple genres. Showing no sign of slowing down anytime soon, perhaps his best is still yet to come.

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