Backfire! (1995)

Backfire! Poster

Just as Jeremy Jackson attempts to become the first male firewoman in New York, fires begin mysteriously erupting from toilets all over the City and Fire Marshal Marc Marshall is called in to investigate. From the start, Jeremy is heckled and sexually harassed by his tough as nails female cohorts including his instructor, the hard-boiled Lt. Shithouse. Jessica Luvintryst, Jeremy's old flame and the Mayor's very personal assistant, rekindles the fire in his eyes and between his thighs. Jeremy discovers trace jet fuel at the fire sites and soon becomes hot on the trail of The Most Evil Man and his diabolical scheme. In the tradition of Naked Gun, Backfire spoofs Backdraft.

Overview
"Backfire!" is a comedy-thruck catastrophe film written by Kenneth Johnson and directed by A. Dean Bell launched in 1995. The film boasts a line-up of promising stars like Josh Mosby, Robert Mitchum, and Telly Savalas, known for their interesting onscreen charm. Nevertheless, thematically, the movie alters closer to parody with a comic edge, supplying numerous minutes of laughter using tropes typical of catastrophe motion pictures.

Plot
The movie follows an eccentric genius inventor named Marvin (played by Josh Mosby), who develops a flywheel turbulence system aiming for a breakthrough in the energy sector. Marvin becomes embroiled in a whirlwind of events when Jeremy (Robert Mitchum), a fast-talking salesperson, persuades him to sell the development.

Nevertheless, the presentation of Marvin's innovation goes awfully incorrect, causing disastrous outcomes. His invention results in attacking tides, technological mayhem, and natural disasters throughout the city, putting lives at stake on a large scale.

Characters
The central characters add considerable depth to the storyline, beginning with Marvin, who in spite of being naive is a genius with great intents. His gullibility leads him into the hands of the persuasive Jeremy. Jeremy, who at first appears virtuous and charming, is revealed to have ulterior intentions and manipulative tendencies. Besides, there is Mike (played by Telly Savalas), a firefighter and supportive figure who tries to control the ensuing damage and is tossed into this turmoil versus his will.

Providing a Parody of Disaster Movies
"Backfire!" does an excellent task of turning disaster film clichés on their heads with a comical twist. From Marvin's disastrous invention to the larger-than-life characters, the movie revels in the absurdity of its facility. As disaster unfolds, the film continues stimulating laughter, making it a strange blend of funny and catastrophe cinema.

Important Reception
Regardless of the movie's attempt to mock disaster movie tropes, it wasn't consulted with similar appreciation by critics or the general audience. The funny was thought about too required and the plot too thin. The cast received mixed evaluations for their efficiencies, with some applauding their dedication to the wild facility and others expressing disappointment over the absence of depth in their characters.

In conclusion, "Backfire!" is a humorous take on catastrophe films, filled with whimsical minutes and chaotic scenarios. Though it wasn't a major success at the time of its release, it has found a niche audience who values its quirky, over-the-top humor and unforeseeable story. Its special mix of genres and insistent commitment to its outrageous property stands as a testimony to the lighter side of catastrophe motion pictures.

Top Cast

  • Josh Mosby
    Jeremy Jackson
  • Robert Mitchum (small)
    Robert Mitchum
    Marshal Marc Marshall
  • Kathy Ireland (small)
    Kathy Ireland
    Jessica Luvintryst
  • Telly Savalas (small)
    Telly Savalas
    Most Evil Man
  • Shelley Winters (small)
    Shelley Winters
    The Good Lieutenant
  • Mary McCormack (small)
    Mary McCormack
    Sarah Jackson