Surprisingly incoherent and boring

I really wanted to like this movie. I feel terribly cynical trashing it, and that's why I'm giving it a middling 5. Actually, I'm giving it a 5 because there were some superb performances.

There's no way I can possibly love it entirely but I just think its ridiculously bad, but enjoyable at the same time.

Through painfully honest and emotional moments, the movie becomes irresistibly relatable

excellent cinematography and choreography in the fire sequences. the rest? try to stay awake. watch the hong kong firefighter movie LIFELINE instead. that film had actual characters. this film has mannequins dressed up as characters. worst yet, they throw out the only good thing about this movie -- the notion of firefighters as underappreciated -- and exchange it for a silly Teen Slasher movie. i mean, come on, the only thing missing from the villain is a friggin' hockey mask or a machete.

1st watched 11/01/2001 - 8 out of 10(Dir-Yoonho Yang, Yun Ho Yang): Very intense homage to firefighters and their abilities to continue fighting for people first, then they battle the fires. Very much like many American-made action movies and very timely considering the recent September 11th disaster because it really makes the fire-fighters shine despite the difficult circumstances with facing their life's end around every corner. If you're looking for any bit of romance, or quiet drama this is not the movie for you. It starts and ends with one jaw-dropping scene after another. Not unlike the Ron Howard film about firefighting, the fire seems to have a character of it's own but these fires are just plain mean!! Side-story involving the arsonist gives you much greater insight into the character than most action movies and actually makes you feel for him (just a little.) Of course, when he's gone you're glad he's gone because you know your heart will stop pounding and you can relax and go on with your normal(everyday- non fireman) life. This movie needs to be watched, let's do it!!

If you love big budget summer blockbusters, you will really enjoy LIBERA ME! It is brutal, violent and features some amazing explosions and fire effects! A must for BACKDRAFT fans! If you like this film, check out a similar title SIREN.