Tom Skerritt, 92, Still Radiates Charisma 40 Years After 'Top Gun' Tom Skerritt, the iconic Hollywood actor, continues to captivate audiences at 92, drawing admiration for his enduring presence in the entertainment industry. Recent appearances, such as a fan meet-and-greet, have highlighted his timeless appeal, with fans expressing astonishment at his vitality. Skerritt, known for his commanding yet understated performances, has built a career spanning decades, from his early role in Harold and Maude (1971) to his legendary portrayal of Commander Mike “Viper” Metcalf in Top Gun (1986). Social media reactions to his recent public appearances have been overwhelmingly positive. Fans praised his physical presence and charisma, with one commenter calling him a “national treasure.” Another noted his versatility, highlighting his roles in films like Poison Ivy, Poltergeist, and the original MASH movie, which inspired the long-running TV series. Many expressed surprise at his age, with one fan declaring, “Even at 92 I think he’s handsome,” while another remarked, “When I used to watch Top Gun, I actually thought he was cooler than Maverick!!!” Skerritt’s career is marked by a series of iconic roles that have left a lasting imprint on cinema. From his nuanced performance as Duke Forrest in MASH to his collaboration with Brad Pitt in A River Runs Through It, he has consistently brought depth and authenticity to his characters. His portrayal of Viper in Top Gun* remains particularly memorable, as the character’s calm authority provided a grounding force amid the film’s high-energy action sequences. Throughout his career, Skerritt has worked alongside industry legends, including Anthony Hopkins, Tom Cruise, and directors like Tony Scott and Robert Altman.#top_gun #tom_skerritt #mash #poison_ivy #a_river_runs_through_it
F1 Proves the Oscars Have Too Many Best Picture Nominees The Academy Award nomination for F1 has sparked widespread debate about the growing number of Best Picture contenders. The film, starring Brad Pitt, is a high-grossing blockbuster that blends action, spectacle, and Hollywood-style entertainment. While praised for its execution, critics argue it lacks depth, with shallow character development, wooden dialogue, and a plot that feels predictable from the start. The movie’s success—both at the box office and in theaters—has raised questions about why such a formulaic film should be considered a serious contender for the highest honor in cinema. The Academy’s decision to expand the Best Picture category from five to ten nominees has long been a point of contention. Historically, the category was limited to five films, a manageable number that allowed for meaningful comparisons between years. For example, debates over 1974’s The Godfather Part II, Chinatown, and The Conversation versus 1976’s Taxi Driver, All the President’s Men, and Network became cultural touchstones. The shift to ten nominees, however, has diluted the prestige of the category. Critics argue that films like F1—which rely on visual thrills rather than narrative complexity—should not share the same stage as more artistically ambitious works. The Oscars’ expanded nominee list reflects broader changes in the film industry. With streaming dominating viewership, fewer people attend theaters, and studios have shifted focus toward big-budget spectacles. This trend has led to a decline in mid-budget dramas and indie films, which once defined the Oscar landscape. The rise of franchises and franchise-like storytelling has further eroded the diversity of nominees.#academy_awards #brad_pitt #f1 #ms_now #top_gun
