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Firebirds (1990)

Director: David Green

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From Time Out Film Guide

When the American military decides to wade in against Latin American drug cartel terrorism, young pilot Jake Preston (Cage) joins the task force, and undergoes training by Brad Little (Jones) on the wonder attack-helicopter known as the Apache. Brad can spot a soul-mate: 'I joined the army to kick ass' he tells Jake, 'and so did you'. Problems with his sight and ex-girlfriend/fellow pilot Billie Lee (Young) ruffle Jake's plans. Inevitable comparisons with Top Gun leave this action adventure wanting. With a gung ho script, sometimes rudimentary editing and uninvolving relationships, the whole effect is rather flat. None of the aerial sequences boast the visual thrills of Top Gun, while even the attempt to inject controversy in the shape of Hollywood's first female combatant is half-realised. In mid-battle, a pursued Billie Lee pleads, 'Oh Jake, save my ass'. She should have heard his reason for enlisting.

Author: CM 0000-00-00 00:00:00

Time Out Film Guide

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Cast & crew

Director: David Green

Producer: Bill Badalato

Cast: Nicolas Cage, Tommy Lee Jones, Sean Young, Bryan Kestner, Dale Dye, Mary Ellen Trainor, JA Preston, Peter Onorati full cast

Genre(s): Action/Adventure

Duration: 86 mins


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