Giveaway and Review: Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue
On June 14, we had the opportunity to preview Disney’s newest animated, adventure comedy, Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue, over a month before the film would debut in theaters. Though we were excited to receive the early screening, we admit we did not have very high expectations for the film. We found the first Planes movie to be moderately enjoyable, but it felt largely like a repeat of Pixar’s Cars story line and it seemed more suited to younger children. Perhaps our expectations were too high as we are avid fans of most other Pixar films, which were equally entertaining for children and adults
Fortunately, Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue soared unexpectedly into our hearts! We definitely enjoyed the film’s story, soundtrack and its message.
Movie Overview
If you aren’t familiar with it by now, Planes: Fire & Rescue features a dynamic crew of elite firefighting aircraft devoted to protecting historic Piston Peak National Park from raging wildfire. The basic premise surrounds world-famous air racer Dusty Crophopper (voiced by Dane Cook). Dusty learns that his engine is damaged and he may never race again, so he finds a second career in the world of aerial firefighting under the wing of veteran fire-and-rescue helicopter Blade Ranger (voiced by Ed Harris) and his courageous team, including spirited air tanker Dipper (voiced by Julie Bowen), heavy-lift helicopter Windlifter (voiced by Wes Studi), ex-military transport Cabbie (voiced by Captain Dale Dye) and a lively bunch of brave all-terrain vehicles known as The Smokejumpers.
Event Details
Before the film was shown, there was a brief appearance by director/co-writer Bobs Gannaway and producer Ferrell Barron. The two shared their excitement with working on the film and talked about the dedication of the film to the courageous firefighters who regularly risk their lives to save others. They also explained that production on Planes: Fire & Rescue began six months after the start of the previous film and they had been working on this film for nearly four years! Beaming with pride, they spoke about the tedious work of creating dramatic and realistic fire effects. After seeing the film ourselves, we could better appreciate their enthusiasm for the realism and quality of the animation, especially the fire!
About the Story (No Spoilers)
Planes: Fire & Rescue is a great comeback story about second chances, specifically a second chance for Dusty Crophopper the hero from the first Disney’s Planes movie. Early in the film, when he’s frustrated with his newly discovered inability to race, Dusty causes some significant problems for his friends at Propwash Junction. Yet, he (independently) realizes he has a responsibility to make things right for them, and luckily, he also has an opportunity to reinvent himself at the same time. The story that follows is not only entertaining, but it also offers some big lessons for children (and adults).
- following through on responsibilities
- doing what’s right, even when it’s not your personal first choice
- understanding that actions have consequences
- listening to rescue workers instructions and warnings
- being a hero doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want to get the job done. Heroes follow orders too.
- being a star/winner/champion isn’t everything. There’s more to life than the flashy stuff!
I think parents will appreciate the strong, respectable messages in the story. This film opens the door to learning opportunities for younger kids who may be currently enamored with superheroes and could benefit a lesson on real-life heroes and responsibility. A second chance story like this can also be inspiring to parents and adults of all ages, especially those considering (or forced into) a career change.
We also want to note there’s some excellent music in the film that felt perfectly matched to the story. It’s got songs by Brad Paisley, Spencer Lee and a terrific score from Mark Mancina.
While the story had a lot more heart and depth than we had expected, I have to point out that we could see the fairly formulaic plot lines (twists?) coming a mile away. Still, it’s surprising and exciting enough to keep kids and parents entertained the whole time.
We definitely recommend this film!
Watch the Official Extended Trailer here and consider checking out Disney’s Planes: Fire & Rescue in theaters soon.
Giveaway!
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Disclosure: We received complimentary admission to see Disney’s ‘Planes: Fire & Rescue’ through a special event opportunity sponsored by the Disney Vacation Club. Entry was granted on a first-come, first-served basis during an online signup period. At the theater, we also received complimentary popcorn and drinks and the items listed above in the giveaway.
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