Movie Review: Man On Wire

Not to be missed, this standout documentary recounts the real life of Philippe Petit. Back in the day our French wonder took a liking to walking on suspended wires. Through black and white home movies we see this charismatic Frenchman learn his trade. Years later the boy turned teen would become a young man and ultimately take the world by storm.

Had you lived in New York in the mid 1970s you may have witnessed this man’s unbridled success. With a crack crew of make-shift helpers Philippe scaled the towers of the World Trade Center in New York and “rigged” a wire between the two magnificent spans.

Then, like a real life spider man or superhero he miraculously traverses the wire hundreds of feet above the ground. Now if that wasn’t enough to leave you shaken and stirred imagine the impact of seeing this dynamo actually do tricks, yes tricks, way up above, just below the clouds. You will be amazed reliving the moment as this human fly delights the crowds below.

Director James Marsh allows us into this unique man’s world and scores terrific interviews with both Petit and members of his team. Brought to the screen with the aid of the BBC and Discovery Films folks will marvel at just what an achievement Petit accomplished.