Thursday, December 04, 2008

Short Movie Review

Man on Wire is a solid docu-drama, but not worth seeing in theaters, definitely a home watching experience. In fact, at times, I thought there wasn't enough material for a full length feature - it would have been a great short film. The film basically recounts the story of Philippe Petit attempt (and success) to walk across a wire illegally rigged between the Twin Towers. The film shows key players describing the event, interlaced with archival footage and dramatic recreations. It does a good job of letting the audience get an inkling of the beauty and thrill of this act.
Some quick thoughts:
- One of the accomplices explains his reasoning behind being involved: "I liked the spirit of it, it was illegal without being mean or destructive."
- The idea of tight rope walking only being meaningful and beautiful because of the death element. Without the possibility of death - the act becomes ordinary and uninteresting. Dying for ones dream/art is tangible reality.
- French men can pull of crying and still seem manly.
- I loved how devoted everyone was to the goal. Not only was Petit's accomplishment impressive, but so was his devotion to practicing his art and figuring out a way to accomplish the impossible.
- Once a dream is achieved life changes forever, not necessarily in a good way or bad way. I like how the film left it a mystery.

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