More like lukewarm water than a blazing inferno!
Much like fire, kids are unpredictable. Whether in movies, TV, cartoons, or even real life, such comparison has been proven time and time again. Generating laughter, aggravation, or even horror—we’ve seen that, too—it’s comedy that’s led to results of emotional charm, especially the ones that entail guardianship. Kids in those types of flicks always wind up stealing our hearts. Think about it. They go as way back as ANNIE, all through BIG DADDY, and most recently INSTANT FAMILY! And if we really want to go cute, the now popular DESPICABLE ME franchise!
The premise within PLAYING WITH FIRE is no different. In a nutshell, the movie follows a crew of rugged firefighters (led by John Cena) who meet their match when attempting to wrap up on a rescue of three rambunctious siblings from a wildfire.
I’m sure we all know the result. For what it’s worth, it’s a charming, adventurous, cute, fun and silly movie. To be honest, some jokes fail courtesy of Cena, but Key and Legz are there to pick up after them. However, what matters is its message of heroism and familial bond coming from places and people we least expect. It was kinda awkward when the film started entailing a scene and knowing Northern Cali IS burning, but that’s where disengaging with reality while watching a movie comes in. And besides… with Dennis Haysbert popping in-and-out, you know we’re all in good hands!
Truth is, this movie won’t be breaking box office records, nominated for any awards, or even wind up a critically praised piece, but it’s good enough for a family looking to sit and take in a movie providing something for everyone. It’s a lean, kinda mean, colorful machine. In short, PLAYING WITH FIRE is Code Red, sprinkled with a little Rainbow Bright!
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Genre: Comedy | Rated: PG | Run Time: 1:35
Starring: John Cena, Keegan-Michael Key, John Leguizamo, Brianna Hildebrand, Dennis Haysbert, Judy Greer
Directed by Andy Fickman
Official Movie Website: Playing With Fire
