Why is Maverick (Tom Cruise) Still a Captain in 'Top Gun: Maverick 2020' 30 Years After 'Top Gun 1986'?

One of the defining moments in Maverick's life was the tragic death of his friend and co-pilot, Nick "Goose" Bradshaw. This traumatic event not only affected him personally but could have also influenced his career choices. It's plausible that Maverick chose to remain a captain to avoid putting himself in a position where he might lose another close comrade.

Being a captain offers a level of responsibility, but it may also provide a sense of stability and predictability that Maverick could have sought after the trauma of Goose's death. His reluctance to advance could be a way of coping with his past.

Maverick's love for flying is undeniable. Remaining a captain allows him to continue doing what he loves most – flying high-performance aircraft. His passion for aviation could have been a driving force behind his decision not to pursue higher ranks, as it would require him to take on more administrative roles and less time in the cockpit.

Maverick's role as a captain could be linked to his desire to mentor the next generation of fighter pilots. By staying in the same rank, he can continue to train and inspire young aviators, passing on his knowledge and experience to keep the Top Gun spirit alive.

Maverick's character has always been about breaking the mold of traditional military protagonists. He is the embodiment of non-conformity and individualism. This unconventional approach to storytelling is what sets 'Top Gun' apart from other military-themed films.

The decision to keep Maverick as a captain in 'Top Gun: Maverick' could be a deliberate choice by the filmmakers to maintain the relatability and authenticity of the character. Audiences have a deep-rooted connection with Maverick, and changing his rank might have altered the essence of who he is.

The decision to keep Tom Cruise's character, Maverick, as a captain in 'Top Gun: Maverick' appears to be a combination of creative storytelling choices and the character's complex history. Maverick's rank is not merely a reflection of his military career but also a representation of the man behind the aviator sunglasses.