Disney’s sequel to the successful “Planes” finds world-famous air racer Dusty with a new career as a firefighting plane. This anthropomorphic character charms us once again in a tame adventure that you can feel comfortable taking your preschoolers to. KIDS FIRST! film critics Gerry O, Haley P, and Adam C weigh in.
What a funny and entertaining film! I did not know what to expect, this is the fourth film in this vehicle’s universe with the two “Cars” movies and then the first “Planes” movie. I was wondering if maybe Disney pushed it a little bit. However, “Planes: Fire and Rescue” is an entertaining film that is a fantastic sequel in this magical franchise.
The story isn’t about just one topic. This is a little bit of humorous romance and also a lot of action. They make some pretty funny jokes while adding a little sprinkle of drama and a great message for the kids as well.
The story starts when Dusty sadly learns that a key component in him is broken and he thinks he will never race again. When a fire breaks out in his airport, they realize the town needs a second firefighter. Dusty steps up to the plate and goes into training. If you want to find out what happens and if he becomes a firefighter, you have got to watch the film.
What a great add-on to the series; the jokes are perfect. Julie Bowen (Lil’ Dipper) is funny through the end. Also, there are a lot of great messages and a lot of references to things in real life. However, this film is very predictable. Ten minutes in, I knew the ending, so it probably would be more captivating for a younger audience. Also, “Planes: Fire and Rescue” is very similar to the last three films. There is a challenge, a serious character, and some comedy. Other than that, the voices are well done and they even changed a Native American folk tale into the version of vehicles just for this film! Very clever!
My favorite scene is when Dusty first arrives at the firefighting station for his training. He is introduced to some Smoke Jumpers, cars that parachute into the fire to tackle fallen trees and save wildlife. One nearly takes off his head and the other two introduce themselves. Once they all get acquainted, the first fire breaks out and cars and planes all get into action in a well-choreographed manner!
This is a kid’s film and nothing really is here that parents should be worried about. I recommend it for ages 3 to18. Even kids that don’t understand it will enjoy the bright colors. I give this film four out of five stars for great jokes and a fantastic story line, even though a bit predictable.
Video review available here: http://youtu.be/PDQWRqNc1j4
— Gerry Orz, age 12
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Planes: Fire and Rescue” is not what I expected at all. It’s even better! Although this is a kid movie, it has a message comparing real life situations even adults can relate to.
Dusty Crophopper (Dane Cook) is a famous racing plane. While enjoying some fun and flying full speed, Dusty hears a sound he never heard before…“CRACK!” He loses control, but is able to land safely. When his crew checks him out, they find Dusty’s gear-box is broken — a part in his engine that has been discontinued. His crew promises to search everywhere for a replacement but in the mean time, he can no longer race.
Feeling sorry for himself, Dusty gets angry and goes on a flying frenzy. His wing accidentally clips a building that bursts into fire. Inspectors shut down the town runway because the fire safety plan was totally outdated, especially the fire truck in charge. Dusty feels bad and decides to get certified as a firefighter to help get the town runway reopened. In the process, he realizes it means more to put other people first and he risks his engine to save the life of someone else.
My favorite scene is when the whole forest is on fire. It’s the largest wildfire the smoke jumpers ever have to deal with. The crew springs into action to contain the wildfire and save everyone’s life.
I just loved Dotty (Teri Hatcher) the most. It is hysterical the way she has a crush on Dusty. She doesn’t leave his side. Blade (Ed Harris) is also a great leader. He risks his own life to protect Dusty in the wildfire. The 3D animation makes the story come alive. It’s like being in the middle of a real forest fire, and the whole movie is action-packed. The moral of this story is if life throws you lemons, make lemonade and never give up on your dreams in the process.
This movie is a good fit for ages 5 through 18. Boys, girls and even adults will enjoy “Planes: Fire and Rescue” because it has many life lessons. I rate this movie a five out of five “dazzling” stars!
Video review: http://youtu.be/gH13sr1jB3E
— Haley Powell, age 11
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If you enjoy fun, thrilling action scenes then “Planes: Fire and Rescue” is the movie for you. This is a sequel to the Disney movie “Planes,” where Dusty Crophopper becomes a famous racing star. Dusty’s engine is damaged and he may never race again due to his equipment failing. The local airport is closed due to safety concerns and the only way to save it is for Dusty to become a certified firefighter. Dusty decides to go to learn to be a firefighter with Blade Ranger and his team in a gorgeous National Park so he can be a certified firefighter.
My favorite character — or should I say plane — is Dusty Crophopper (voiced by Dane Cook). He portrays a wide range of emotions in the movie from sad to happy. I can relate to Dusty wanting to help the forest out when Blade Ranger was not able to do it.
The scenery in this film is beautiful. The national park is gorgeous and pristine. The animation is thrilling with the planes flying over the majestic park and dropping fire retardant on the flames.
My favorite part of the movie is when Dusty and the team fight a huge fire without their leader Blaze Ranger. Dusty is brave to go out without his mentor and earns his certification as a firefighter.
The firefighting scenes are beautiful and exciting to watch, especially for boys my age.
The film’s positive message can apply to all age ranges. Sometimes in life things do not go as we plan them to be and we have to have a positive attitude and not give up. Dusty provides a good role model for this as he takes on the brave role of firefighter when he cannot race anymore.
I give this movie five out of five stars. I am 8-year-old boy and I loved it. It is geared more toward young boys who will love it and want to buy the merchandise. I recommend it to ages 4 to 10, especially boys.
Video review: http://youtu.be/AmRfe011LbE
— Adam C., age 8
“Planes: Fire and Rescue” is in theaters now.
