Man On Wire

I watched a movie this week that really got under my skin (in a good way) – Man on Wire. It’s a documentary about a tightrope walker who strung a cable between the two towers of the World Trade Center in 1974 and then walked on it.


What I found so interesting about this movie is the vision and drive that the main character (Philippe Petit) has to perform this feat. Like you hear about the motivations of many artists, Petit was compelled to do this. He had to do it. Why? There was no why. It was just something he had to do. It’s like what you hear some writers or musicians say. And if you have an issue with calling Petit an artist, just look at some of the reactions of people in the film to what he did. What he did provoked reactions from many people similar to what a beautiful painting or piece of music provokes.

Provided it doesn’t result in harm to other people, I admire those who have a vision and stick to it no matter what. And I think I am slightly jealous of those who are called so clearly to do what they do. I have never felt something like that. I do know the pleasure of getting lost in a creative endeavor, and having it guide my actions to a certain extent. I guess I have felt called to do certain things, but not to the extent on display in this film. This guy risked his life to do this! I’m not sure I would have the courage to do something like that. And that’s why I found this film so fascinating.