Backdraft
Two feuding siblings carrying on a heroic family tradition as Chicago firefighters. But when a puzzling series of arson attacks is reported, they are forced to set aside their differences to solve the mystery surrounding these crimes.
Critics Sentiment
Stephen refuses to let Adcox go and both fall from catwalk
Tim Krizminski severely burned in backdraft during high rise fire
The film jumps from its weakest point during Tim's tragic accident to building toward the spectacular chemical plant climax.
Backdraft starts strong with family drama and spectacular fire effects but suffers in the middle from overwritten subplots and forced romance. The film redeems itself with a genuinely thrilling climax and emotionally powerful ending that showcases both technical mastery and Kurt Russell's compelling performance. Critics consistently praise the visual effects and brotherhood themes while criticizing the melodramatic excess.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 35
Kurt Russell
Stephen McCaffrey
William Baldwin
Brian McCaffrey
Robert De Niro
Donald Rimgale
Donald Sutherland
Ronald Bartel
Jennifer Jason Leigh
Jennifer Vaitkus
Scott Glenn
John 'Axe' Adcox
Rebecca De Mornay
Helen McCaffrey
Jason Gedrick
Tim Kirzminski
J.T. Walsh
Alderman Marty Swayzak
Anthony Mockus Sr.
Chief John Fitzgerald
Cedric Young
Grindle
Juan Ramírez
Ray Santos
Kevin Casey
Nightingale
Jack McGee
Schmidt
Mark Wheeler
Pengelly
Richard Lexsee
Washington
Beep Iams
Sean McCaffrey
Ryan Todd
Brian, Age 7
John Duda
Stephen - Age 12
Robert Swan
Willy - Bartender
Crew
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