MAN ON WIRE. Dir James Marsh. 2008

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Enthralling documentary about young Frenchman Philippe Petit, whose breathtaking audacity gets
Enthralling documentary about young Frenchman Philippe Petit, whose breathtaking audacity gets him arrested for the ‘artistic crime of the century.’

Man on Wire has a strong theme of destiny throughout. Magician and unicyclist, the teenage Philippe sees a magazine article about the building of the twin towers of the World Trace Center in New York. At that moment his life’s purpose is clear. Everything he does is focused upon this one aim: to wire walk between the two buildings, half a mile above ground level.

As bold and daring as a bank raid, the team manages to get onto the top floor of the Twin Towers, ready for the attempt. Film maker James Marsh uses archive footage, photographs, interviews, recreations and graphics to conjure up a dizzying, exhilarating film.

Refreshingly dismissive of rules, Philippe has no time or patience for limits and restrictions. Driven by his passion and conviction, he lives for freedom from everything - convention and particularly fear.

Reliant on them for the fixing of the cables, his girlfriend and his friends are caught up in his dream, supporting and encouraging him, anchoring him. The spectator too, is captivated by the magical atmosphere of his conviction. His friends are anxious for his safety and his girlfriend fears his obsession is making him close to demonic but his certainty never wavers.

Elated, excited, not manic, but vibrant and compelling, Philippe is spellbinding. This joyous, at times hilarious, film is a celebration of exceptional youthful confidence and nerve. Thrilling, and ultimately moving, Man on Wire shows Philippe is a man living life to the utmost, on the edge of death and feeling truly alive.

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