Empire Strikes Back (1980) leads with 56% of votes
See full Movie Sequel rankings →VS
Your GOAT List
The 'Empire Strikes Back', a legendary sequel that punches you in the gut with a darker tone and shocking revelations, clashes head-on with 'Top Gun: Maverick', a high-flying audience pleaser that reignites the thrill of modern aerial combat with cutting-edge visuals. While the former deepens its mythical sci-fi saga with complex characters and a richer plot, the latter soars on the adrenaline of renewed nostalgia and impeccable action sequences. This battle isn't just about the might of the Force against the roar of fighter jets—it's a test of time-tested emotional resonance against the sheer spectacle of contemporary cinema. Which sequel truly takes your breath away? Step into the arena, choose your champion, and let the debates begin!
In this battle:
Fans currently prefer Empire Strikes Back (1980) over Top Gun: Maverick (2022) when it comes to the greatest Movie Sequels of all time. In head-to-head matchups, fans pick Empire Strikes Back (1980) 56.2% of the time over Top Gun: Maverick (2022).
Across all battles:
Empire Strikes Back (1980) win rate: 65.1%
Top Gun: Maverick (2022) win rate: 50.0%
This battle is a classic showdown of old vs. new. Empire Strikes Back is a cherished classic with a vast, loyal fan base, while Top Gun: Maverick brought fresh energy and a modern twist to its legendary predecessor, making fans split on their loyalties.
Top Gun: Maverick hit a sweet spot with fans for its breathtaking aerial stunts and emotional storyline, resonating especially with audiences who loved the original. The nostalgia factor combined with new-age cinematography really pulls fans into its corner.
Empire Strikes Back is pulling ahead mostly because it's seen as a monumental part of movie history. Fans love how it deepened the Star Wars saga and introduced iconic twists, which might not resonate as strongly with the newer Top Gun: Maverick, despite its own merits.