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Deep Dive: Burn (2012)

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Burn
BURN: One Year on the Frontlines of the Battle to Save Detroit is a documentary that follows Engine Company 50 of the Detroit Fire Department during a year marked by high arson rates and financial struggles. The film centers on three firefighters: Dave Parnell, an experienced firefighter nearing retirement; Brendan 'Doogie' Milewski, who becomes paralyzed after a fire incident; and Don Austin, the new commissioner tasked with revitalizing the department amid Detroit's economic collapse. The narrative intertwines their personal stories with the broader context of a city facing severe challenges. The documentary was produced and directed by Tom Putnam and Brenna Sanchez, who began filming in August 2009 after the death of firefighter Walter Harris. The film captures the daily realities of firefighters in a city with 80,000 abandoned structures, highlighting the risks they take to protect properties that are often vacant. It was released in 2012 and received positive reviews, indicating a strong connection with audiences and critics alike.

Why Watch

  • •Meet firefighter Dave Parnell before his retirement.
  • •Follow Brendan 'Doogie' Milewski's life-changing accident.
  • •See the challenges faced by the Detroit Fire Department.

Did You Know

•Engine Company 50 operates in a city with 80,000 abandoned structures.
•Brendan 'Doogie' Milewski became paralyzed after a wall collapsed on him during a fire.
•Dave Parnell is a 33-year veteran firefighter who is 60 years old in the film.
•The film was executive produced by Denis Leary and Jim Serpico in 2011.

Perfect For

Firefighting storiesDetroit historyDocumentary enthusiasts