Reviewers have been kind to "Top Gun: Maverick", citing that the film works well on every level. Much of the credit for the movie's success is the seeming agelessness of Tom Cruise, coupled with great visuals and an interesting and affecting script. But there is probably a sociological factor at play, as well. Derek Robertson, writing for Politico, believes that everyone needs to feel good about something lately and "Top Gun: Maverick" provides the cinematic salve for our wounds. Indeed, there's been plenty to be depressed about or argue about in the last few years, regardless of where you live: the worst pandemic in a century, soaring inflation, the invasion of Ukraine, shortages of essential goods, mass shootings, the insurrection, Brexit and Partygate and increasing numbers of crazy conspiracy theories pertaining to everything from Covid to elections to UFOs. Tom Cruise has had his own troubles over the years, most of them self-imposed. But he has learned his lesson. Like the movie stars of old days, he doesn't wear out his welcome with media appearances and largely keeps his personal life and political beliefs to himself, thus avoiding alienating moviegoers. He's always been a major star but he's also been somewhat taken for granted and underrated as an actor. Now when he's pushing 60, he's at the peak of his career, which also helps inspire those of us of a certain age.