LADDER 49
A flaming building and a downed firefighter
(Joaquin Phoenix) provide the backdrop for a
flashback on a man's life and his career with
the Baltimore Fire Department. As a rookie
firefighter Jack Morrison must undergo the
rigors of being the "new guy" at the station as
he learns the ropes of firehouse politics, as
well as the techniques fire fighting. Captain
Mike Kennedy (John Travolta) is there for him
every step of the way, as he matures as both a
fireman and a family man. Their bond is
special and the friendship that ensues is solid,
transcending the work place.
This Touchstone Pictures offering is filled with
exciting scenes of danger and heroism.
Director Jay Russell makes the most of his
fine cast and action-packed script as he eases
us through about ten years over the course of
the two hour film. Never do we feel rushed or
shortchanged as to content as the tale unfolds
before us.
Jacinda Barrett (The Human Stain) makes a
fine dedicated, and usually understanding, wife
of a career man, who must divide his time
carefully between job and home. Plenty of
good supporting talent can be found in the
firehouse gang.
(Joaquin Phoenix) provide the backdrop for a
flashback on a man's life and his career with
the Baltimore Fire Department. As a rookie
firefighter Jack Morrison must undergo the
rigors of being the "new guy" at the station as
he learns the ropes of firehouse politics, as
well as the techniques fire fighting. Captain
Mike Kennedy (John Travolta) is there for him
every step of the way, as he matures as both a
fireman and a family man. Their bond is
special and the friendship that ensues is solid,
transcending the work place.
This Touchstone Pictures offering is filled with
exciting scenes of danger and heroism.
Director Jay Russell makes the most of his
fine cast and action-packed script as he eases
us through about ten years over the course of
the two hour film. Never do we feel rushed or
shortchanged as to content as the tale unfolds
before us.
Jacinda Barrett (The Human Stain) makes a
fine dedicated, and usually understanding, wife
of a career man, who must divide his time
carefully between job and home. Plenty of
good supporting talent can be found in the
firehouse gang.
| Mary's Comments It's unusual to see John Travolta in a supporting role, but he does a fine job as Captain Kennedy. All of the heavy-hitting, lead role responsibility is left to the capable talent of Joaquin Phoenix who captures our attention and wins our hearts with his story. Very exciting scenes and effects will keep you wiggling in your seat. |
Brenda's Comments
Action and drama will keep you wide awake
during this film. The film's perspective often
gives the audience a feeling of
participation, which is both thrilling and
exhausting. Respect for the everyday
heroes who serve our communities daily is
reinforced by this movie tribute.
Action and drama will keep you wide awake
during this film. The film's perspective often
gives the audience a feeling of
participation, which is both thrilling and
exhausting. Respect for the everyday
heroes who serve our communities daily is
reinforced by this movie tribute.
© 2003 St. Louis Movie Review Weekly. All rights reserved, except where indicated.
ST. LOUIS MOVIE REVIEW WEEKLY
Publishers: Brenda S. Ladd & Mary K. Morgan
Publishers: Brenda S. Ladd & Mary K. Morgan
Official Movie Website
Theatrical Release
2005
Home Video
3/08/05
MPAA Rating
Rated PG-13 for intense fire
and rescue situations, and
for language
Running Time
1 hour 55 minutes
Directed by
Jay Russell
Cast
Joaquin Phoenix, John
Travolta, Morris Chestnut,
Jacinda Barrett, Balthazar,
Robert Patrick, Jay
Hernandez
Studio
Touchstone
Theatrical Release
2005
Home Video
3/08/05
MPAA Rating
Rated PG-13 for intense fire
and rescue situations, and
for language
Running Time
1 hour 55 minutes
Directed by
Jay Russell
Cast
Joaquin Phoenix, John
Travolta, Morris Chestnut,
Jacinda Barrett, Balthazar,
Robert Patrick, Jay
Hernandez
Studio
Touchstone
DVD Details
Disc Specs
Languages: English, French, Spanish
Running Time: 1 hr. 55 mins.
Number of Discs: 1
Features:
· Enhanced Home Theater Mix
· Deleted scenes
· "Everyday Heroes" -- featuring real
stores from real firefighters
· "The Making of Ladder 49" featurette
· "Shine Your Light" music video
performed by Robbie Robertson
· Audio commentary from Director Jay
Russell and Editor Bud Smith
Languages: English, French, Spanish
Running Time: 1 hr. 55 mins.
Number of Discs: 1
Features:
· Enhanced Home Theater Mix
· Deleted scenes
· "Everyday Heroes" -- featuring real
stores from real firefighters
· "The Making of Ladder 49" featurette
· "Shine Your Light" music video
performed by Robbie Robertson
· Audio commentary from Director Jay
Russell and Editor Bud Smith
Movie Details