This is a movie about Southwestern working-class men who drink beer, carry heavy tools, train in quasi-military fashion, banter in a weight room, attend a group family picnic and drive pickup trucks to a soundtrack loaded with AC/DC and ZZ Top. But under its slick, schematic surface, this tale of aspiration and redemption at least offers moments of genuine feeling.

had a less generic title and fewer formulaic beats. If only Joseph Kosinski’s action-drama “ Only the Brave” - based on the exploits of the real-life Granite Mountain Hotshots, a troop of elite firefighters near Prescott, Ariz. Others, however, may find that the film provides some welcome catharsis and a nice reminder of those who put their lives on the line to protect everyone else.Given what Northern California has endured recently with wildfires, perhaps it’s high time to honor those risking life and limb to contain such conflagrations. Only the Brave might hit too close to home for those filmgoers in need of a mental break from the real world, in light of recent events (namely the California fires). It nevertheless makes for a worthwhile and overall moving drama, thanks to a combination of great acting and fine craftsmanship. The film doesn't break the mold for movies inspired by real acts of bravery and tends to lean too heavily on conventions to give its plot structure.

This makes Only the Brave's eventual (and true to life) turn towards tragedy all the more affecting and poignant for it.Īs a testament to the courage and tenacity of the real life Granite Mountain Hotshots, Only the Brave is a solid effort and even stirring at times.

These capable supporting players, in turn, make the most of their screen time, lending more emotional heft to the proceedings here. The rest of the movie's characters aren't developed beyond two-dimensional types (the loyal second-in-command, the supportive veteran, and so on), but they do benefit from being brought to life by talented character actors like Jeff Bridges, Andie MacDowell, and James Badge Dale.

Only the brave movie in times square