Considered one of the best comedies of all time, Jim Abraham’s films “Hot Shots!” had audiences laughing hysterically as he poked fun at one of Hollywood’s most iconic films “Top Gun.”
The film’s lead character is Topper Harley who it turns out has some extreme “daddy issues” and is asked to go off to war for America’s greater good.
Within this story, there are a few hidden messages on American exceptionalism.
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So check out our list of how Topper Harley taught us to be better Americans.
1. He answers America’s call to serve once again
After being booted from the Navy, Topper finds himself living a peaceful life among Native Americans. But soon his country calls for his help on a crucial mission called “Sleepy Weasel.”
After smoking a peace pipe full of helium, Topper decides it’s his duty to answer America’s call by accepting the mission and to find closure for his “daddy issues.”
2. He stands up for his fellow man.
Soon after reporting for duty, Topper tells a senior officer to “lighten up” after witnessing him yelling at a fellow pilot with shitty vision. Then, Topper receives an ear full — which he has no problem taking.
Topper is all about leading his men from the front like a true American.
3. He attends therapy.
Most tough guys wouldn’t be caught dead discussing their feelings in any setting. But Topper does it, and so should the many Americans who look to him for leadership.
4. He taught us how to cook an American breakfast using a hot girl’s stomach.
Sounds impossible? Well, Topper did it, and he added an egg, hash browns, and bacon. There’s nothing more American than that.
5. Harley reminds us that giving money isn’t the best way to say “I’m sorry.”
Americans often look for a simple way to apologize by giving a gift. When Topper hands over his apology gift, he’s told the cold hard cash will likely be blown on a new collection of hats.
Americans also misuse their money, but that’s an entirely different subject.
6. Topper doesn’t f’ing quit and neither should America … ever.
Topper’s father was known as sort of a wild pilot. He died during a mission and Topper has had issues ever since. This issue temporarily grounded the Navy pilot who is known to freeze up when people mention his father’s death.
Once Topper learns the heroic truth about his father, he snaps out of his funk and takes down the all bad guys — then celebrates.
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7. We’re all on the same team.
For the whole film, Topper has been duking it out with a fellow pilot for respect with his team and for the affections of a girl. But after dueling it out with the bad guys, the men put their differences aside and become best buds.
This is just a reminder of how in the end, we’re all Americans.
