The Walk (2015)
2015
PG
123 Minutes
The story of French high-wire artist Philippe Petit's attempt to cross the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in 1974.
User Review
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The Walk balances heightening visuals with a towering aspirational story. The true story of a man, just one individual, walking across the twin towers of the World Trade Center. Yes, Philippe Petit had the audacity to disobey the law and chase his dream, thus consequently creating an inspirational life story that I'm sure will reinvigorate many. The Walk, obviously depicting the grandeur of the stunt, also dabbles into his backstory and how he found his passion for being an artist. An underlying theme throughout the plot, Petit wasn't just an entertainer, he viewed his displays with a sense of artistry. Exuberantly confident yet fiercely determined, Zemeckis once again has produced a whimsical tale that ensures you experience an array of emotions. Gordon-Levitt's performance of the central character was phenomenal. A perfect French accent to accompany his commitment to the act of high-wire walking, he became truly captivating. The supporting cast were good with Kingsley being the most noticeable. The vital aspect to the film is the visual grandeur which increasingly induces acrophobia as the stunts become more death-defying. Zemeckis puts this at the forefront, particularly during the twin tower walk, where the breath-taking heights feel both nauseating and illustrious. I can only imagine how enthralling the 3D would've been, I may have to give it a watch next time. The story was well paced and mostly focussed on the infiltration of the World Trade Center which felt reminiscent to classic Chaplin films. An endearing tone of clumsiness entered the narrative, especially when the plan stumbles occasionally. The main problem, which surprised me given Zemeckis at the helm, was how heavy-handed the narrative was conveyed. The over reliance of narration and the fact it took a biographical route (as the film is told through a flashback), meant that there were no thrills. Any issues that occurred during the stunt automatically negated any excitement, because we all know how the film ends due to the narrative structure. Ultimately, a disappointing aspect to what is a high flying biopic.0 member like this review.
