Firebirds

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.