Fighting the Fire

I really enjoyed the movie, I found it very interesting looking into what a first responder must go through. The movie also addresses a very important topic - mental health.

The acting was terrific. James Dickey, who played the lead character, Brian Cook, did an amazing job of bring to life the struggles of a responder trying to find a way to combat his demons before they destroy him and everything he loves.

Angela Baker, who played his wife, Melanie, was fantastic in her role. It is difficult to portray a character who is both supportive and at the end of her rope at the same time. I found myself feeling as sorry for her as I did for Brian.

I was also impressed by Brayden Lacer, who played Brian's son, Drew. Witnessing such emotion from a young actor was truly amazing. He and his sister, Maddie (played by Kaitlyn Kemp), faced not only the agony of living through their father's struggles, but faced a devastating loss of their own.

The scenes with the responder meeting were so emotional and gut wrenching. I found it hard to watch at times. In fact, I had to stop the film, gather myself, and go back to it. Hearing those stories being so emotionally presented by talented actors was truly masterful. Simply put - it was powerful!

Fighting the Fire is a very well-made movie. I have worked with the writer/director, Bobby Lacer, on a previous project about my real-life true story. He and his crew did an amazing job of bringing the story to life, so I am not surprised by the quality of this film, nor the amazing story-telling of the script. It is very thought-provoking, especially for people that may be struggling with PTSD, anxiety or other mental issues.

This movie really struck home with me as my dad was a firefighter, and he struggled his entire life with not being able to save a young child. The horrors he faced throughout his career were many. This film presents the struggles of first responders in a way I have never seen in any other film. It also teaches people, responders or otherwise, to seek help from others. Don't face your struggles alone. There are people who love you and want to help.

It is a truly masterful film. I am hoping for sequel. 10 stars from me!

Fighting the Fire is extremely well-developed and produced. As a former law enforcement officer, and someone who is still friends with a significant number of first responders, watching this film brought about numerous thoughts and memories surrounding the internal battles that arise, even when one is not on duty.

Having an extremely caring and emotionally supportive group around you is so important. I was fortunate enough to work as a Deputy with the Stafford County Sheriff's Office. Their department does an amazing job of supporting, not just their Deputies, but their entire staff. I can't begin to recall the number of times my Sergeants and Lieutenants checked in on my colleagues and me, just to ensure our well-being. The training and communication we received just seemed to reassure everyone that you were never alone and that everything would be alright.

Additionally, having a supportive spouse/partner at home is very important. A strong family support system is crucial. When someone is hurting, losing that support, or having it taken from them, is never beneficial. I have friends and colleagues that have had both supportive and unsupportive spouses. It truly makes a difference.

Overall, I felt Fighting the Fire touched on so many critical issues that first responders are forced to deal with, day in and day out. James Dickey did an amazing job in portraying Brian Cook. The journey his character was forced to travel, kept my attention throughout the entirety of the film.

Former Deputy Sheriff Stafford County Sheriff's Office, VA.

Fighting the Fire, directed by Bobby Lacer delivered a heart-pounding, emotional roller coaster that beautifully blends high-stakes action with poignant human drama.

Lead Actors, James Dickey and Angela Baker, portray their roles excellently with compelling exploration of courage, resilience, forgiveness, and love.

Fighting the Fire film follows veteran firefighter Lt Brian Cook (James Dickey) who has fought many fires in his career but the fires he fuels inside can get out of control if we don't find help to extinguish them before they do. He learns that love in the hard times if we let it.

Melanie Cook, (Angela Baker), did a marvelous job in her role as a loving and caring wife. She sees the toil Brian's demanding job has taken on him as a firefighter and sees him getting out of control. Although hard to do, she gives him space to find the help he needs.

Fighting the Fire delves into the personal and professional challenges faced by all first responders but with a little love and faith, the challenge can be faced head-on and the fire(s) can be fought.

Direction and Cinematography: Director and Producer, Bobby Lacer; did a masterful, balance in the film and gave us a blend of intense action sequences with moments of quiet introspection. The firefighting scenes are meticulously crafted, providing an adrenaline rush that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The use of practical effects over CGI adds a layer of authenticity, making the infernos feel tangibly real. Great job Sir.

Fighting the Fire is a gripping and emotionally charged film that pays homage to the bravery and sacrifice of all firefighters and all First Responders. This is an exhilarating action movie and a touching human drama. It's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates stories of heroism and the enduring power of the human spirit.

This is a heart wrenching drama! Director Bobby Lacer takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster through the struggles and triumphs of firefighter Brian Cook and his family. Cook's ups and downs are brilliantly portrayed by the talented James Dickey. The character is deeply troubled and the performance of raw emotion he brings to the role is exceptional, making it impossible not to feel every ounce of his pain, anger, and ultimately, hope.

Lacer skillfully navigates the delicate themes of mental health, PTSD, and the toll that being a first responder can take on individuals. The movie masterfully balances the dark, intense moments with glimpses of light and humor, creating a truly immersive experience for the viewer.

The cinematography is stunning, with beautifully composed shots and great lighting that capture both the intensity of the firefighting scenes and the quiet moments of introspection. The musical score complements the film perfectly, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene.

While the pacing of the film can feel slow at times, it ultimately serves to build the tension and emotional weight of Cook's journey. The dialogue is poignant and authentic, adding depth to the characters and their relationships.

Overall, "Fighting the Fire" is a powerful and moving film that sheds light on the unseen struggles faced by first responders. It's a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of seeking help and support in times of need. This movie will stay with you long after the credits roll, leaving a lasting impact that is both thought-provoking and inspiring.

This is an intense and accurate depiction of the stress, trauma, and PTSD that many first responders face on a regular basis. Kudos to the cast and crew for tackling such an important message and for making sure that the topic of mental health is kept in the forefront. The movie gave the sense that; it's okay if something is wrong, but what's not okay is to hide it until it hurts yourself and others.

The main character's family and friends start to suffer as a result of unresolved and unaddressed traumas. He starts to follow in his fathers footsteps without even knowing and then ultimately changes his path after learning that is healthier to cope than to suppress and self medicate.

Admittedly, I was not prepared for the emotional ride that this film provided and I caught myself lost in the struggles of mental health and alcoholism that were so very well portrayed by Dickey. The entire cast and their roles were all essential in the telling of the overall story and to make the audience aware that; it's not just the person you see hurting that is the only victim.

Speak up before it's too late. If you're hurting, it's okay to ask for help! So many of our real life heroes battle demons and unfortunately succumb to them... don't be another statistic. Watch this movie, share the message, and check on your loved ones in the first responder field.

The real strength comes from opening up, not from hiding.

The "988 Lifeline" provides 24/7, free & confidential support for people in distress, prevention & crisis resources for you or your loved ones.