Firestarter (1984) is a supernatural horror film directed by Mark L. Lester, based on Stephen King’s 1980 novel of the same name. The story follows a young girl named Charlie McGee, played by Drew Barrymore, who possesses pyrokinetic abilities—the power to start fires with her mind. These abilities are the result of a government experiment conducted on her parents, Andy and Vicky McGee, portrayed by David Keith and Heather Locklear.

The plot centers on the McGee family as they are pursued by a secret government agency known as “The Shop,” which seeks to capture Charlie and use her powers as a weapon. Andy, who also possesses a mild form of mind control known as “the push,” tries to protect his daughter from the relentless agents led by the sinister Captain Hollister, played by Martin Sheen. The film builds tension as Charlie’s powers grow increasingly uncontrollable, leading to explosive confrontations.

As Charlie and her father go on the run, the film explores themes of innocence corrupted by power and the dangers of governmental overreach. The climax is a fiery showdown between Charlie and the agents of The Shop, where her full destructive potential is unleashed.

Firestarter is notable for its portrayal of a child grappling with extraordinary and dangerous abilities, as well as for its intense special effects, particularly in the depiction of fire and pyrotechnics. The film has become a cult classic, recognized for its blend of horror, science fiction, and suspense, along with Barrymore’s compelling performance as the young girl struggling with her terrifying gift.

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