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Reviews
The Big Fix (1978)
Worst movie ever
Saw this in the theatre back when it was first released. In a nutshell, my problem with this film is that the entire plot is revealed in the first five minutes with nothing else to show for it. Of course, this was not understood as the film unfolds, so the rest of the hour and a half you're anticipating that something significant, or even interesting, is about to happen, and it never does. Only when the credits start rolling does it become clear that you just wasted an hour and a half of your life. I'm quite certain that I've invested more emotional capital in this film writing this review than anyone involved in making it. Just a crappy film.
Man on Wire (2008)
Enjoyable film but leaves many questions.
There's no denying Philippe Petit is an astounding high-wire performer. He put together a team that ultimately succeeded on a grand scale. In the film, Petit is glorified as an idealistic artist driven to pursue his dream. Yet, all you need to know about the man is the first thing he did after getting out of jail was cheat on his childhood sweetheart girlfriend, the one person who supported his dream and stood by his side for years leading up to the WTC stunt. It was always all about Philippe.
The film was enjoyable but left some loose ends. Mainly, how did he come to be involved with the individuals in his NY crew? They sort of appear out of nowhere with nothing that ties them into the circle of trust. Much footage is re-enactments, so many scenes are merely dramatic interpretations and not the real thing as would be expected in a faithful documentary. Overall, though, it's a well-done film. It's tough to imagine anyone pulling off a similar stunt in this age of surveillance and suspicion.