Over the summer, social media was ablaze with debate over which big box office film was the biggest hit. Two contenders stood out above the rest: “Elvis” and “Top Gun: Maverick.” Both films had huge success with widely diverse crowds, so now it’s time to answer the most important question: Which movie do the Dubs prefer?

Recently, social media sites like TikTok have been blasting constant content on Austin Butler’s portrayal as timeless singer Presley and the crazy method acting techniques he used to get into the role. But fans old and young seemed to be just as excited to see the return of Tom Cruise in the classic Top Gun franchise. The Dubs are no different from the rest of the world; they too have had a serious debate over the film of the Summer.

It seems that anyone who at least semi-enjoyed the original “Top Gun” movie prefers its sequel, for the legacy if nothing else. The cast is iconic and the plot of the movie brings nostalgia to many people. Sophomore Tucker Heaton appreciates Austin Butler’s performance as Elvis, but it can’t be compared to the iconic atmosphere surrounding Tom Cruise and Co. “I thought ‘Elvis’ was ok,” he said. “But personally I think it’s really difficult to measure up to what Tom did in the franchise. I’ve loved the first movie for years.”   

Not only were viewers wowed by the acting in “Top Gun: Maverick,” but the filmmaking too. Junior Luke McCullough loves the fresh direction that the film took with its camera angles and production overall. “I thought the cinematography was really fantastic,” he said. “ I would give this movie a solid nine out of ten!” 

For those who spend a lot of time on TikTok, “Elvis” was more of a hit for them. On the platform, #AustinButler now has over one billion views since the film came out. Senior Jordan Thorpe thought the movie was pretty good in itself, but Austin Butler’s performance is really what’s ‘always on her mind’. “I saw both and they were both amazing,” she said. “But I’ll never get over ‘Elvis.’ It was so well done and Austin Butler did such a good job too.” 

It’s an entertainment battle as old as time between nostalgia and newcomers. Will the legacy of Tom Cruise live on, or will Austin Butler be taking center stage?