Today I’m sharing leadership lessons from one of my favorite movies.  I recently rewatched it for the sixth time. When Top Gun: Maverick soared into theaters, it didn’t just revive a beloved 1980s franchise—it reignited the entire movie industry. After years of uncertainty in the entertainment world, Tom Cruise and his team proved that strategic vision, calculated risks, and a commitment to excellence can transform an idea into a cultural phenomenon. As Donald Miller highlights in his podcast, the strategies behind this box-office success are lessons every business can apply.

1. Stay True to Your Core Mission

One of the reasons Top Gun: Maverick resonated so deeply was its commitment to the essence of the original film: thrilling aerial sequences, camaraderie, and timeless storytelling. Cruise understood that audiences loved the heart and spirit of Top Gun, and he leaned into those elements while updating the story for a modern audience.

Business Takeaway: Identify what your customers value most about your product or service and double down on it. Stay true to your core mission while finding innovative ways to meet current demands. Don’t abandon what made you successful in the first place; instead, refine and amplify it.

2. Embrace Relentless Quality

Cruise’s meticulous approach to quality was evident in every frame of Top Gun: Maverick. From real-life aerial stunts to cutting-edge cinematography, the production spared no effort in delivering an unparalleled experience. Cruise famously insisted on real fighter jet footage, immersing viewers in the action and setting a new standard for authenticity.

Business Takeaway: Excellence builds trust and loyalty. Whether it’s the quality of your product, the design of your customer experience, or the reliability of your service, customers notice when you go the extra mile. Relentless commitment to quality not only attracts new clients but keeps your current ones coming back for more.

3. Take Calculated Risks

Greenlighting Top Gun: Maverick in the middle of a global shift toward streaming was a bold move. Releasing it exclusively in theaters was even bolder. Cruise’s decision to bet on the cinematic experience paid off, drawing audiences back to theaters and proving that people still crave communal, larger-than-life entertainment.

Business Takeaway: In a world of rapid change, taking calculated risks can set you apart. Analyze trends, assess potential outcomes, and be courageous in making decisions that align with your vision. Risk, when balanced with strategic insight, can lead to significant rewards.

4. Leverage the Power of Nostalgia

Maverick wasn’t just a sequel; it was a love letter to fans of the original. It brought back beloved characters, familiar themes, and iconic moments while introducing new elements to capture the imagination of younger audiences.  I like this movie BETTER than the original and I can’t think of another franchise that I can say that about.

Business Takeaway: Nostalgia is a powerful tool. Whether through branding, marketing, or product design, tapping into positive past associations can evoke strong emotional connections with your audience. Just ensure that your strategy isn’t purely nostalgic—update and innovate to make it relevant for today.

5. Collaborate with Excellence

Cruise didn’t make Maverick a success alone. He collaborated with top-tier directors, writers, and a talented cast who shared his vision and commitment to greatness. This teamwork resulted in a product that exceeded expectations.

Business Takeaway: Surround yourself with people who excel in their fields and share your values. To me sharing the same values is key.  Collaboration with the right partners can elevate your business to new heights. Build a culture where teamwork and shared goals drive success.

6. Deliver an Experience, Not Just a Product

What set Maverick apart wasn’t just the film itself but the experience it offered. Watching it in theaters became an event, a moment of escapism that connected audiences in a unique way.

Business Takeaway: In today’s competitive marketplace, customers crave experiences that go beyond the transactional. Think about how your business can create memorable, engaging interactions that leave a lasting impression. Experiences build emotional connections, turning customers into loyal advocates.

7. Adapt While Staying Agile

The Maverick team faced delays, a changing industry, and unprecedented challenges. Doesn’t that sound like your business today?  Yet, they remained agile and adapted their strategy to fit the moment. This flexibility ensured that the film launched at the perfect time, maximizing its impact.

Business Takeaway: Agility is key in navigating uncertain times. Be prepared to pivot, recalibrate, and respond to challenges while staying focused on your long-term goals. Businesses that balance adaptability with consistency are better positioned to thrive.

Tom Cruise’s Top Gun: Maverick wasn’t just a movie; it was a masterclass in strategy, execution, and vision. By staying true to its mission, prioritizing quality, taking risks, and delivering unforgettable experiences, the film not only revived the movie industry but also set a new standard for excellence. These principles apply to any business looking to soar to new heights. So, ask yourself: What’s your Maverick moment? And how will you lead your team to achieve it?