Netflix fans rave over film dubbed 'a masterclass in storytelling 'based on harrowing real events as they're left 'in tears and on the edge of their seats'

Daily Mail​

03-05-2025

Netflix fans have raved over a film dubbed 'a masterclass in storytelling' based on harrowing real events as they're left 'in tears and on the edge of their seats'.
Only the Brave, which is based on Sean Flynn's GQ article No Exit, hit our screens back in 2017.
The official synopsis reads: 'All men are created equal… then, a few become firefighters.
'Only the Brave, based on the True Story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, is the heroic story of one unit of local firefighters that through hope, determination, sacrifice, and the drive to protect families, communities, and our country become one of the most elite firefighting teams in the country.
'As most of us run from danger, they run toward it – they watch over our lives, our homes, everything we hold dear, as they forge a unique brotherhood that comes into focus with one fateful fire.'
It stars Josh Brolin, Miles Teller, Jeff Bridges, James Badge Dale, Taylor Kitsch and Jennifer Connelly.
Only the Brave, which runs for 133 minutes, is directed by Joseph Kosinski and the screenplay is by Ken Nolan and Eric Warren Singer.
It is based on the story of the 19 crew members that lost their lives on the Yarnell Hill Fire in Arizona on June 30 2013.
The only crew member that survived was Brendan McDonough.
Although the American biographical drama was released seven years ago, people are only just watching it on the streaming service, and sharing their rave reviews now.
The film has received an impressive 87% on the Tomatometer of review site Rotten Tomatoes, as well as 91% on the Popcornmeter.
One TikToker named @eccyreviews said in a video: 'Whatever you're planning on watching next, you need to make sure it's definitely this film.
'I just got done watching it on Netflix.
'It's a heart-breaking true story which genuinely left me in tears.'
The official synopsis reads: 'Based on the true story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, a group of elite firefighters who risk everything to protect a town from a historic wildfire'
Many others have taken to Rotten Tomatoes to share their thoughts.
One said: 'A film that actually make me feel emotions after a long while.'
'Wow. I don't want to give a single thing away, so wont comment on the plot. This is a must see. The acting, the pacing, the storyline, the character arcs, the production, the music tie-ins, the directing. Everything!! One of my fave's now.'
'A true event made to wallop emotions yet a great movie.'
'True tear-jerker. The movie does a great job of showing what the granite mountain hotshots were like, and what they had to go through. Rest in peace to them. Very well put together, 10/10.'
'Very touching movie with interesting and also sad fates of people, that risked their lives for the others.'
'One of the better movies I have watched.'
Meanwhile Netflix fans have shared their excitement after the streamer announced a major change which will 'transform' every hit series.
Many viewers watch their TV shows and programmes with subtitles, but now there is been an update to the service which sees subtitles show just the words spoken, and nothing else.
The new adaptation was rolled out on the fifth and final season of You, released last Thursday, and Netflix plans to add it to all its original shows from now on.
Early testers reported a smoother reading experience, Netflix said, saying it was less 'obtrusive' - and fans have now also taken to social media to express their delight at the new feature.
One user said on X: 'Finally, a win for subtitle lovers! No more getting distracted by every door creak and ominous music cue.
'Netflix is stepping up its caption game with a cleaner, more streamlined experience. Less chaos, more clarity.