Ladder 49

Plot

Jack Morrison (Phoenix) is a seasoned firefighter in the heart of Baltimore. In a horrendous fire, he is severely injured, and flashes back to moments in his career, and life; from starting as a firefighter, meeting his wife and having children, and several devastating events during his career.

Direction

Some great action sequences, as well as some great camera techniques. I particularly enjoyed moments where it gave the POV from firefighters themselves.

Cast/Characters

The primary two cast members, Phoenix and Travolta deliver amazing performances – both read the assignment before signing on.

Travolta is my MVP in the film as he is the almost father figure to Jack. There are moments where he absolutely gives it his all, and I honestly don’t think he’s ever underperformed in a film.

Some of the secondary cast (Morris Chestnut, Billy Burke, Robert Patrick) have significant moments in the film too – and all are quite rounded.

Jacinda Barrett as Jack’s long-term wife is also well cast, and gives an amazing performance.

Screenplay Setting Themes

I didn’t love the non-linear narrative, with the constant flashbacks/back to present/flashback. I thought it would have worked better if it was all told in a linear pattern. I became invested into the ‘moment’ and then was pulled out to another.

I thoroughly enjoyed the theme of ‘family’ in the film – and that the American firefighter sees their workmates as family. The community, and love they have for one another feels organic.

Score /Soundtrack

The score within the film matches the tone of the events occurring onscreen, and there is a sweet soundtrack that plays at times.

Overall

Despite some personal feelings about the narrative, I really enjoyed this. There were plenty of impressive performances, and the overall relationships and community within the firefighting community was to be commended. A strong recommend from me.

4/5