75
Much of this story is indeed entertaining: there's a tone of lighthearted mischievousness to the plotting and scheming of an illegal act that is essentially harmless.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
90
The New York Times by A.O. Scott
Thorough, understated and altogether enthralling documentary.
80
New York Magazine (Vulture) by David Edelstein
The most miraculous thing about Man on Wire is not the physical feat itself, 1,350 feet above the ground, but that as you watch it, the era gone, the World Trade Center gone, the movie feels as if it's in the present tense. That nutty existentialist acrobat pulled it off. For an instant, he froze time.
88
The film runs 95 minutes, and you'll be holding your breath for most of them.
100
Entertainment Weekly by Lisa Schwarzbaum
The gorgeous music includes Ralph Vaughan Williams' wafting tone poem ''The Lark Ascending'' -- apt in describing an artist who might well be part bird.
88
Engrossing and exhilarating documentary.
67
It's a story worth telling, yes--but after 90 minutes, it's hard not to wonder if the storyteller can talk about anything else.
100
One of the most wildly entertaining docs of recent years.
One of the most engaging documentaries I have ever seen! Philippe Petit is such a unique storyteller; the love he has for wirewalking shines through the screen. His insights pair so well with the real footage and reenactments, working together to create an honest portrayal of events and Petit himself. Prior to watching, I knew of his walk between the Twin Towers, but I was unfamiliar with how much planning was required, as well as his other famous stunts—a truly one-of-a-kind story.