Firewalker, released Nov. 21, 1986, is a mixture of action, humor, and supernatural elements that stars Chuck Norris and Oscar-winner Louis Gossett Jr. as treasure hunters, Max Donigan (Norris) and Leo Porter (Gossett Jr.), who are down on their luck after a recent failed expedition.
Their fortunes take a turn when they meet Patricia Goodwin (Anderson), a mysterious woman with an ancient map leading to a vast treasure hidden by the legendary “Firewalker.”
Intrigued by the promise of wealth and adventure, Max and Leo agree to join Patricia on her quest.
Their journey takes them to the heart of Central America, where they encounter a series of dangerous obstacles and rival treasure hunters. As they delve deeper into the jungle, they uncover the truth behind the “Firewalker” legend and the sinister forces that seek to claim the treasure for themselves.
The film blends action, adventure, and humor, with Norris and Gossett Jr. delivering their signature performances as tough, resourceful, and often comical heroes. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their banter provides some of the film’s most memorable moments.
Anderson, as the enigmatic Patricia, adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to the story.
Firewalker Reception
Gene Siskel, on his movie review show At the Movies said “Firewalker was “one of the most derivative films in years, splicing elements of Raiders of the Lost Ark with Romancing the Stone.”
Roger Ebert said in his review that Firewalker “lacked the style, witty dialogue and magic of the current adventure movies, as it borrowed its closing images from the Indiana Jones films, but its press notes optimistically claim the picture is “in the tradition” of Romancing the Stone. In literature, it’s called plagiarism. In the movies, it’s homage.”
Firewalker gross $4.1 million in its opening weekend behind Crocodile Dundee, An American Tail and the re-release of Disney’s Song of the South. The film would end up with a total gross of $11.9 million.
While it was one of Cannon Films’ top grossing films of 1986, it would be on of Norris’ lower grossing films for the company overseen by Menahem Golan and Yorum Globus.
Legacy
While Firewalker may not be considered a cinematic masterpiece and is considered by many film critics to be a knockoff of the Indiana Jones films starring Harrison Ford, it remains a fun and entertaining action-adventure film that delivers on its promise of excitement and thrills.
Will Sampson, known for his performance as the apparently deaf and mute Chief Bromden in the 1975 film One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and Ten Bears in 1976’s The Outlaw Josey Wales starring Clint Eastwood, appeared in this film as Tall Eagle, his final feature film role.
It’s a classic example of 80s action cinema, with its blend of action, humor, and exotic locales.
