Julian RuncanMan on Wire: Ah, the French
July 28th 2010 17:06
Man on Wire is one of those documentaries that's so crazy, it feels like it was all made up. Every single odd was stacked heavily against Philippe Petit and his team, but nothing could stop this man from reaching his goal. The movie doesn't focus on the feat itself (tightrope walking between the World Trade Center towers), but the bravery and determination that one needs to muster up in order to make his dreams come true.
By presenting much of the movie like a heist film, director James Marsh took a gamble that paid off. Knowing he makes it, all of the drama surrounding his stunt has vanished. The real story lies in the team's mission of planning the impossible, and the amazing way they were able to overcome all obstacles. There are some snippets of drama that feel like they're mentioned just to cue certain emotional beats, but overall the film doesn't stray from its established path.
Petit himself plays a large role in the film, telling his story beautifully with the language and rhythm that he has perfected over the years of repetition. He may come across as egotistical at times, but you can't say the man doesn't deserve the praise. His enthusiasm and passion, retained after all these years, makes one believe in miracles. Petit is selling the belief that anything can be achieved if you never lose faith in yourself, and it's hard not to buy it.
An inspirational and fascinating tale, Man on Wire is a great film that appeals to the dreamer hidden in all of us. Petit's childlike nature is incredibly charming, and the film does an excellent job of presenting the story in an exciting manner.
9.0/10
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