The Hidden Penny in 'Top Gun': An Often Overlooked Character

Often, the most compelling details in a film are the ones that are smallest but most significant. Think of a penny in a bustling market, hardly noticeable yet carrying a world of potential. In the 1986 classic Top Gun, one such penny can be found, albeit briefly: the character of Penny Benjamin.

Introduction to Penny Benjamin

Much like the fabric of reality can be woven from the subtlest threads, the fabric of the narrative in Top Gun is intricately detailed with small but meaningful elements. Penny Benjamin is one such detail. Mentioned but not physically present, she is the daughter of an admiral and witness to a plot point that momentarily intertwines into the fabric of the story.

Context and Significance

During a tense and deliberative moment, the officer in command of the squadron (CO) delivers a heavy critique to Maverick. Specifically, this critique centers around Maverick's history of engaging in high-speed passes over various air control towers. The CO's frustration is compounded by an additional factor: “1 admiral's daughter”. These words barely scratch the surface of what is being discussed, but they are crucial in terms of the plot dynamics and the interpersonal tension at play.

Line 1: "with a history of high speed passes over 5 air control towers and 1 admiral’s daughter!"

This critical sentence is punctuated by the introduction of Penny Benjamin. Goose whispers her name, a brief mention that hints at a layer of complexity in the relationship between the characters. For many viewers, this detail might be a minor footnote, but it adds a nuanced depth to the narrative. The act of mentioning her, even slightly, suggests that she is a significant enough figure to warrant a mention, making her a small detail carrying a larger significance.

Analysis: This small detail connects the personal and the professional, hinting at a deeper story or relationship that is not immediately visible. It also serves as a callback to the overarching theme of respect for authority and the chain of command within the military hierarchy.

Subtle Nuances and Hints

The second mention of Penny occurs in a less dramatic but no less important scene. During a casual conversation at a restaurant, Goose mentions her again, setting the scene for a more in-depth exploration of her character if the narrative had been different. While she is not physically present, her presence lingers in the background, serving as a mirror to the complex dynamics at play in the film.

Impact: These minor references to Penny not only add depth to the story but also serve as a subtle hint at the overarching themes of duty, responsibility, and personal/familial ties. The character of Penny Benjamin, though not central, is a crucial element in understanding the broader narrative of Top Gun.

Conclusion: The Hidden Penny and Its Significance

Just as a penny can be insignificant in a market, yet valuable in one's hands, Penny Benjamin is a small but meaningful detail in Top Gun. While not physically present, her existence adds layers to the narrative and serves as a symbol of the complex relationships and responsibilities within the military. This often-overlooked character becomes a beacon of depth and intrigue, reminding us that even the smallest elements can carry great significance in the grand tapestry of storytelling.

In the end, it is these hidden pennies that enrich the film, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with viewers long after the credits have rolled.