Planes: Fire & Rescue Review

Planes: Fire & Rescue (Rated PG) is a new comedy-adventure 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 and his courageous team, including spirited super scooper Dipper (voice of Julie Bowen), heavy-lift helicopter Windlifter, ex-military transport Cabbie 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.

Our family was fortunate to attend last night's advance screening of Planes: Fire & Rescue, which I thought was very cute and entertaining, and a nice tribute to all the courageous firefighters.

After being told that his racing days are over due to a failing gearbox, Dusty focuses on becoming a Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT) to assist Mayday, a fire and rescue truck, in order to keep the Propwash Junction airport operational. 

Dusty ends up at Piston Peak Air where Blade Ranger takes him under his wing.

Dusty goes through a lot of training, making many mistakes along the way, and ultimately he risks everything to become a certified SEAT.

Although it's a movie - and an animated one - I thought Planes: Fire & Rescue did a nice job of showing the dangers firefighters face daily and what they risk without being graphic or threatening.

Despite the tense moments of danger in the film, there were many moments where my kids giggled, and even many humorous parts which only adults could understand.

The animation was great (my kids loved the training and firefighting scenes in which the aircraft flew throughout the National Park), and the soundtrack complemented the film nicely.

Although I thought the ending seemed a bit forced, and I would have liked for the movie to explore the newer characters and relationships just a bit more, the kids really enjoyed Planes: Fire & Rescue.

Planes: Fire & Rescue is in theaters now.

 

Disney's Planes: Fire & Rescue Extended Trailer on Disney Video
Thank you to the sponsor for the complimentary screening tickets.