John Travolta and Joaquin Phoenix star in 2004's Ladder 49
I'm not going to lie to you, I thought this film was film was about the firemen who were involved in the rescue of civilians in 9/11. It was not until half way through (and more necessary research) that I realised it wasn't! I got this confused with the film World Trade Center. Oh dear...
However I will argue that that may be one issue with this film, it is non distinct. It does feel like a run of the mill 'American hero' movie. It blend in with so many similar outings. The film is focuses on young firefighter Jack, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who finds himself unfortunately stuck in a burning building, he reflects on his life as his buddy and deputy Chief Mile Kennedy played by John Travolta tries to get him out.
The two main leads are of course, especially excellent actors who have proved so in previous work. But here it doesn't feel like they really get a chance to fully commit to their roles as they are underwritten, and let's face it, lack depth. Phoenix is the master at playing complex, intriguing roles, such as in Walk the Line and The Master. But here, he feels slightly soulless. His motivations don't feel clear and even when we see flashbacks of his life, he doesn't have much depth, which is a shame. I didn't really buy his love story as much as the film wanted me to invest in it.
Travolta again, tries his best but we don't get to see much of his real character and his own home life. The effects are great and very realistic. The big, burning building set pieces are defiantly eye popping and amp up the tension.
The script dwindles near the end, leading up to an inevitable ending which may leave you feeling about empty, however it didn't go for the usual cheesy ending which so many Hollywood films fall back to. It is a nice, fitting tribute to firefighters however I just wanted more from the great cast. 5/10
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