Top Gun: Maverick case study: how Paramount used immersive influencer marketing to elevate a global film launch.
The challenge:
Reigniting the Top Gun legacy for a new era.
As Paramount prepared for the digital release of Top Gun: Maverick, the studio faced the challenge of reigniting the Top Gun legacy for nostalgic fans while attracting a new generation. The goal was to design a bold, story-driven campaign that delivered immediate buzz, sustained PR value, and cinematic credibility across broadcast, social, and digital platforms. With sky-high fan expectations, Paramount needed a marketing partner who could authentically capture the adrenaline and authenticity of the film in a way that resonated globally.
Our solution:
An immersive influencer experience in the skies.
Evolution developed and executed a fully immersive influencer marketing activation designed as both a content engine and PR driver. Partnering with a premier flight school, we curated an aerial adventure that mirrored the intensity of the movie. Hand-selected influencers chosen for reach, cultural relevance, and outlet alignment took to the skies in real aircraft, suited in authentic flight gear and parachutes, performing G-force maneuvers that embodied the Top Gun spirit.
Our production team captured every moment with cinematic quality, integrating official film footage to elevate the narrative. Within 48 hours, we delivered polished content packages optimized for broadcast, OTT, social, and digital platforms fueling real-time momentum. Every element of the experience was conceived, produced, and led by Evolution, with creative sign-off from the Tom Cruise team, underscoring the activation’s visibility and credibility.
The result:
Viral buzz and record-breaking box office impact.
The activation generated widespread press coverage, premium platform placement, and viral social engagement, amplifying Top Gun: Maverick’s visibility during its release window. It became a cornerstone of Paramount’s global PR campaign, reinforcing the film’s cinematic authenticity and fan connection. The results spoke for themselves: Top Gun: Maverick grossed over $1.48 billion worldwide, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. The campaign proved how immersive, influencer-driven content can strengthen studio credibility while driving both fan excitement and measurable box office success.
Client: Paramount Studios
Agency: Evolution
Production & Post: Evolution
