Review of Backdraft (1991) by Keith B — 21 Mar 2016

I see a lot of similarites between 'Backdraft' and 'Top Gun'. They both take a job that is extremely dangerous and make it look extremely heroic. More heroic than it already is. Both have amazing musical scores and many instances of the "hero" shot.

'Backdraft' does have an interesting premise with a pretty star studded cast and overall is a good time. But where Top Gun shined was with its hero Maverick, played by Tom Cruise, Backdraft lacks with it's lead hero in William Baldwin playing Brian McCaffrey.

Maybe it was just me but I couldn't get emotionally invested in him and his relationship with some of the other cast, especially Jennifer Jason Leigh's character. But it is made up for with great performances by Kurt Russell and Robert De Niro.

If you are looking for some fun 90's cheese, Backdraft is not a bad option.