James Marsh’s dramatic documentary reconstructs the remarkable event that took place in 1974, when Philippe Petit, a young street performer and high wire walker, scaled the World Trade Centre and proceeded to walk between the Twin Towers. With the world watching in awe, and the police eagerly waiting to arrest the young Frenchman, Petit was literally dancing amongst the clouds. Marsh’s documentary not only focuses on the actual event, but goes into extraordinary detail into the planning of this highly illegal but daring activity. The result of which is breathtaking and dramatic in equal measure.
Philippe Petit: Mad Man or Artist?
When watching the documentary, one cannot help become enchanted by Petit’s lust for life and desire to achieve the unthinkable – walking on a thin steel wire, 1,350ft in the air between the highly guarded and newly built Twin Towers. Petit in total spent 45 minutes, making eight crossings between the two towers.
Petit plans his high wire walk like a military operation, observing the towers, making a model reconstructions of the buildings, renting out helicopters and trying to access the building by false identification. One has to admire his sheer determination and dedication to his cause. On film, Petit is excitable, jumpy and incredibly enthusiastic. He will stop at nothing to achieve his dream, despite his friend’s reservations. Petit brings to life his incredible adventure with sheer honesty and one cannot help but be inspired by Petit’s story.
Man On Wire: Worth Watching?
In a word, yes. Marsh’s direction brings the story of one man’s dream to life and uses various techniques to capture the historic event. Man On Wire does not only rely on the original testimonies of all involved, but this beautiful documentary is littered with dramatic reconstruction, stunning photographs and original film clips of Petit in his younger days. The testimonies are emotional to watch, especially towards the latter end of the documentary when tears are shed and friendships are broken.
Man On Wire is a celebration of faith, artistic integrity and dreams. One cannot help but admire Petit’s determination in the face of death, however it is his loyal friends that one cannot help but feel sorry for. After Petit’s subsequent arrest, he achieves celebrity status, while his friends it seems, were forgotten. Marsh's documentary celebrates everyone involved in this wonderful event. Man On Wire leaves a remarkable imprint on the audience’s mind long after the credits have rolled.
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