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A Tribute to Baltimore's Best and Firefighters Everywhere. In spite the fact that I'm from Baltimore and a major Joaquin Phoenix fan, Ladder 49 is an awesome film. For one it doesn't have that Hollywood feel, but an everyday sort of quality. Not the typical action packed adventure, but the telling of real life drama. A story told in flashback Jack Morrison (Phoenix) is trapped and cut off from his fellow firefighters in a 20-story building inferno. You become the onlooker of his initiation into the brotherhood of firefighters, his career decisions, his family life, and the struggles he faces watching his fellow firefighters suffering injury and death. There is firemen bonding, rituals, rescues, pageantry, and everyday firehouse living. You will laugh, hold your breath and cry. My favorite scene occurs when Jack has to be lowered down the side of a high rise office building to rescue a trapped man. The supporting cast which includes John Travolta as Cap. Mike Kennedy and Jacinda Barrett as Linda Morrison are vital to the story. He gives the perspective of a fellow firemen and she the perspective of a concerned wife. Once you view this film, you will have a whole new appreciation for what firefighters do everyday. My cousin in a firemen and I didn't realize everything involved. Also be sure to watch the Bonus Features to get even more insight.