Smokey Bear, a Smokejumper and a Firefighter greet movie goers at a showing of Disney’s “Planes: Fire & Rescue”

Release Date: Jul 28, 2014

Movie goers had a real thrill as they bought their tickets for the Disney movie “Planes: Fire & Rescue” Saturday evening in Grangeville, Idaho.  Smokey Bear, plus a real firefighter and smokejumper greeted the public under the marquee of the Blue Fox Theater on Main Street. The movie is an animated telling of a dust cropper plane that becomes motivated to fight wildfires and ultimately earns the qualifications to do so.  

Outiside shot of crowd at movie theater in Grangeville, Idaho

Outfitted in their fire line work clothes, Forest Service staff met with the public for a half an hour before the movie began. Young children talked with these local heroes for the first time while seniors in the community shook their hands. Activity booklets featuring characters from the movie were available to everyone. The firefighters personally autographed copies given to the children. Parents took pictures. Passersby not intending to go to the movie took in the fun along the sidewalk.

Before the movie began, Smokey Bear and the two firefighters went on stage and spoke briefly about what their jobs entail. Each received applause from an excited audience.  

Smokey Bear and Friends outside the Blue Fox Theater in Grangevillle, Idaho

At the conclusion of the movie, Smokey Bear and the two firefighters were again greeting people in the theater lobby and outside under the marquee. Adults and children alike all commented that they liked the movie. When asked some children said the fire was their favorite part, yet others said the airplanes flying was the best part. Movie goers were heard clapping in the theater when the movies leading star Dusty, received his qualifications.

The Disney production is made in cooperation with the National Park Foundation, the Ad Council, the Association of State Foresters and SmokeyBear.com. The requirements to become a wildland firefighter are portrayed accurately to the joy and satisfaction of all firefighters and their families throughout the industry. The movie “Planes: Fire & Rescue” is helping the next generation become interested in issues pertaining to willdland firefighting. It might even motivate some to become involved professionally in a very necessary line of work.