Planes Fire & Rescue Film Review

By Kenda - July, 18th 2014

 

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Genre: Animation/Adventure
Rating: PG /action and peril
Release Date: July 18, 2014

Voice Cast: Dane Cook, Ed Harris, Julie Bowen, Curtis Armstrong, John Michael Higgins, Hal Holbrook, Wes Studi, Brad Garrett, Teri Hatcher, Stacy Keach, Cedric the Entertainer, Danny Mann, Barry Corbin, Regina King, Anne Meara, Jerry Stiller, Fred Willard, Captain Dale Dye, Kevin Michael Richardson, Patrick Warburton

Director: Bobs Gannaway
Producer: Ferrell Barron [/column]

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About the Movie

“Planes: Fire & Rescue” is a new adventure-comedy about second chances, featuring a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from raging wildfire. When world famous air racer Dusty (voice of Dane Cook) learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, he must shift gears and is launched into the world of aerial firefighting. Dusty joins forces with veteran fire-and-rescue helicopter Blade Ranger (voice of Ed Harris) and his courageous team, including spirited air tanker Dipper (voice of Julie Bowen), heavy-lift helicopter Windlifter (voice of Wes Studi), ex-military transport Cabbie (voice of Captain Dale Dye) and a lively bunch of brave all-terrain vehicles known as The Smokejumpers. Together, the fearless team battles a massive wildfire and Dusty learns what it takes to become a true hero.

Website: Disney.com/Planes  –  Facebook: facebook.com/DisneyPlanes  –  Twitter: www.twitter.com/DisneyPictures

The RJ Review

Let me start by saying I wasn’t completely sold on the first Planes movie. I could see the value for younger children, the animation was top notch and the voice talent list was impressive. However, after watching it I felt – well, “disconnected” would be a good word. I could appreciate different elements of the film, but I didn’t fall in love with the story or the characters. Going into Planes: Fire & Rescue, I was dubious. Would this be a recycling of the first story? I think many people have wondered the same thing. For me, the question was quickly answered: No. This is not “Planes 2”. You’ll see some familiar faces, but this is a whole new adventure and one that I was delighted with and moved by.

In the first movie, the goal was winning. While there was the theme of “believe in yourself” it was sitting in the shadow of “I’m the best”. In Planes: Fire & Rescue, Dusty is there again trying to prove himself. But, this time, it’s for the sake of others and not his own desires. While Dusty is definitely a main element of this movie, the stars are the firefighters. This film not only caught my attention with it’s amazing animations of lifelike forest fires, rushing rivers and crashing waterfalls; it also pulled me into the world of those who risk their lives to save others. They may be machines that talk, but they take on, and bring light to, the dangerous tasks that real men and woman face as firefighters every day.

I was impressed with how the focus was put on danger, sacrifice and heroism. There are many scenes that had me leaning forward in my seat, waiting to see what would happen from second to second. I won’t go into too much detail because I don’t want to spoil the experience for anyone else. But, this is the first time I have cheered out loud for Disney characters.

There are also underlying lessons, that can be learned by both children and adults, concerning wildlife preservation, responsible camping methods, fire safety and more. But don’t worry – there are still plenty of funny scenes to keep the mood light. One of my favorite subjects is probably the interaction between Dipper (Julie Bowen) and Dusty (Dane Cook). To say their …friendship…is peculiar and laugh inducing would be an understatement. Their scenes together were definitely a highlight for me.

The humor overall seemed more natural and realistic this time around. There are a few cheesy one-liners (which elementary aged kids will still love and probably repeat for days after seeing the film), but there were plenty of scenes where I found myself laughing along because the lines were clever and easily compared to funny situations that happen in real life.

Overall, I really enjoyed this film. It was heartwarming and triumphant, brave and sincere. It also made me research more about the lives and duties of real firefighters. So, along with making me laugh, it taught me something as well. It should not only entertain your family, but also create some opportunity for dialog that informs and educates. Sounds like a win – win to me.