Backdraft

In 1971, young brothers Steven McCaffrey and Brian try on a fireman's coat at a Chicago firehouse, aspiring to follow in their father's footsteps. Their excitement quickly escalates when they join their father, a firefighter, on a dangerous call, marking the beginning of their relationship with the firefighting world.

During a fiery rescue at an apartment building, Brian witnesses the tragic death of his father when a gas line ruptures and the floor explodes. The event leaves a profound impact on Brian, who is left holding his father's helmet as a photographer captures the moment, leading to a famous magazine cover.

Fast forward twenty years, Brian graduates from the firefighter training academy but is estranged from his brother, Steven, who now runs the toughest fire company in the city. Despite his training, Brian’s journey begins with uncertainty about his assignment and fractured family ties.

Following an explosion at a nearby house, Brian confronts his brother at the scene, where they argue over Brian's desperate avoidance of working at Engine 17. Brian also learns about Steven's troubled marriage, which adds tension to their already strained relationship.

Brian visits his sister-in-law and nephew, realizing the extent of the family rift after his father's death. This visit re-establishes his connection to the McCaffrey family while highlighting the emotional distance that has grown between him and Steven.

On his first day, Brian struggles with technical challenges as they respond to a fire at a dressmaker's factory. This experience reignites his passion for firefighting, but also leads to a harrowing near-death experience when the floor collapses.

At a party for the Chicago Fire Chief, Steven's jealousy surfaces after he spots his wife with another man, leading to a public altercation. This incident exacerbates tensions not only between the brothers but also within the fire department.

Brian defies orders and rushes into a burning tenement with Steven to rescue a trapped child. Though they succeed, their heated confrontation afterward once again showcases the unresolved issues between them, rooted in their father’s legacy.

After investigating a series of suspicious fires, Brian connects with arson inspector Rimgale and begins to suspect that the recent blazes are linked to an arsonist within the firefighting community, possibly one of his colleagues.

Brian and Rimgale delve deeper into the mystery as they uncover evidence linking the arsonist to the city's political turmoil. This leads to a race against time to prevent further disasters and protect his fellow firefighters.

In a climactic encounter at a chemical factory, Brian learns that Axe is the arsonist. Tension peaks as the building begins to collapse, forcing a desperate struggle for survival among the brothers as they confront not only the fire but also their conflicted relationship.

After a harrowing rescue, Steven succumbs to his injuries in the hospital. His dying words urge Brian to protect the fire department's honor by keeping the truth about Axe's actions secret, leaving Brian torn between duty and family loyalty.

Brian, fueled by grief and anger, interrupts a press conference to reveal Swayzak’s corruption in the downsizing of the fire department. His bold move not only sends shockwaves through the city but also symbolizes his commitment to honoring his brother's legacy.

As Brian reclaims his place at Engine 17, he symbolically keeps the shield from Steven's helmet. He embraces his new role, finding purpose and a renewed connection to his family's legacy of courage and commitment to firefighting.

In a poignant moment, Brian assists a new recruit with his gear, mirroring the guidance Steven once provided him. This act of mentorship signifies Brian's growth and his determination to uphold the McCaffrey family's proud firefighting tradition.