Topic: Top Gun Maverick

American national pride has reportedly dropped nine points to its lowest recorded level, despite successful military missions like the strike on Iranian nuclear sites. While films like *Top Gun: Maverick* were intended to bolster patriotism, the public is increasingly weary of foreign entanglements and domestic economic issues. Dropping bombs on foreign countries no longer generates the same patriotic surge as it did in previous decades.

The United States military is facing a perceived decline in elite readiness compared to a "battle-hardened" Russian force. Critics argue that recruitment focuses on social benefits and transgender surgeries rather than traditional combat excellence. The popularity of the film "Top Gun: Maverick" and the Blue Angels is cited as evidence that the public prefers traditional military strength over progressive messaging from leaders like Lloyd Austin.

Ryan Kennel credits the massive success of *Top Gun: Maverick* and *The Terminal List* to their focus on traditional entertainment rather than "preaching" to the audience. He highlights Eric July's "Ripaverse" comic book project, which has raised over $3.3 million by offering non-woke content. Kennel argues that the public is hungry for stories that respect the customer.

Royce Lopez and Mersh from the "Revenge of the Cis" podcast join the show to discuss the decline of comedy in the "woke" era. They contrast the success of "Top Gun: Maverick" with the failure of Disney's "Lightyear," attributing the difference to the presence of political agendas. The group discusses how SNL and late-night hosts have become propaganda outlets rather than comedic platforms.

Watson critiques new Disney content, including a scene in "Baymax" featuring a transgender man buying tampons. He compares the box office failure of "Lightyear" to the massive success of "Top Gun: Maverick," which he argues succeeded by avoiding "woke" social engineering. Tim Allen's criticism of the new Buzz Lightyear film is also highlighted.

The success of "Top Gun: Maverick" is discussed as a form of positive patriotic propaganda that has increased interest in Navy recruitment. This is contrasted with what the host describes as "grooming" propaganda aimed at children through events like the upcoming Disney Drag Brunch in Arlington, Texas. A Texas lawmaker has proposed a ban on minors attending drag shows, a move the host supports as a necessary measure to protect children from inappropriate content.