Silently behind a door, it waits.|May. 24, 1991|United States|137 Min.|R
Genre: Crime;Drama;Thriller
Description: The 1991 film “Backdraft” follows the story of two brothers, both firefighters with Engine 17 of the Chicago Fire Department. The older brother, Lt. Stephen “Bull” McCaffrey, is seasoned and experienced, while Brian has always lived in his brother’s shadow. After struggling in various careers, Brian returns to firefighting, though Stephen questions his ability. Their father, Captain Dennis McCaffrey, died tragically during a call in 1971, leaving a lasting impact on both brothers. John “Axe” Adcox, a long-serving veteran who worked under their father, became a paternal figure to them. However, Adcox grows increasingly concerned about Stephen’s risky methods and disregard for safety, a concern echoed by Stephen’s wife, Helen, who separates from him to protect herself and their son, Sean.
The plot thickens when Inspector Donald “Shadow” Rimgale, a dedicated arson investigator, is called in to investigate a series of explosive fires resembling those set by imprisoned pyromaniac Ronald Bartel. Brian is assigned as Rimgale’s assistant after a falling out with Stephen. During the investigation, it’s uncovered that Chicago City Council alderman Marty Swayzak, who supported fire department budget cuts, was bribed by contractors to shut down firehouses for conversion into community centers, with the contractors securing lucrative construction contracts. Meanwhile, Brian reconnects with Jennifer Vaitkus, an aide to Swayzak.
Tensions escalate when Engine 17 responds to a high-rise fire. Stephen insists on rushing in despite Adcox’s advice to wait for backup. Brian’s friend and fellow trainee, Tim Krizminski, opens a door, triggering a deadly backdraft that leaves him severely burned. Both Adcox and Brian blame Stephen for the tragedy, deepening the rift between the brothers.
Cast director: Ron Howard
Cast actor: Kurt Russell, William Baldwin, Robert De Niro, Donald Sutherland, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Scott Glenn, Rebecca De Mornay, Jason Gedrick, J.T. Walsh, Anthony Mockus Sr.
Original name: Backdraft