Our Netflix pick this week is a documentary that almost silently made the rounds at independent theaters, called Man on Wire. It's the story of Philippe Petit, a French wire walker who managed, almost through sheer force of will alone, to tie a rope between the twin towers (then still standing in 1974) and walk across it. It's not the newest of releases, but it's one that many of you may not have seen.
I had never heard of this (quite historical) moment before glancing in my local rag (The Alibi) and seeing it playing at my local independent theater. It actually ended up being a first date of sorts, which was made all the better by the fabulousness of this film, which follows Petite and his friends (cohorts) as he follows his dream.
What makes the film truly shine are the people whose lives we are entreated to enjoy for an hour and a half. Petit's friends (and the people he meets along the way), and especially Petit himself (his manic, eccentric delivery is a highlight), are beautiful in their simplistic humanity. Petit's obsession with the feat that in the end he accomplishes tests the limits of his relationships, friendly and romantic, yet Petit will not be moved from his task. His singular vision and almost claustrophobic telegraphing toward his one goal is at once amazing and humbling. Would that I had even a tenth of the drive, even to finish one class, much less test the limits of my own humanity and ability in such a profound yet simple way. Man on Wire is insightful in its capacity for expressing the simplistic nature of human thinking and how it can force us into ever-deepening corners of complexity from which often we do not escape. But Petit does, and gloriously, beautifully, powerfully.
Man on Wire will run you through the gamut of emotions, and will inevitably overcome you with its singular, shining vision of hope. In a time where we are all being tested in our own personal ways, Man on Wire reminds us that we are still human, and that in itself is amazing. Our Netflix pick.
[ Try Netflix Free for 2 weeks, more info after the jump... ]
Why is Netflix the best source for DVD rentals? There are so many reasons you really have to sign up to understand. But, here are a few to get you thinking:
- Netflix offers plans from $4.99 up to $47.99 per month, letting you rent from as few as 2 movies per month, to an Unlimited number.
- You can keep the movies for as long as you like. NO late fees, and no driving to the video store at 10 pm.
- You can stream movies online or direct to your TV (with appropriate equipment), and most memberships allowing unlimited streaming.
- Just pop the watched DVDs in the mail, and a couple days later you receive the next movie(s) on your list.
- Many films are now available in a Blu-Ray option, so you can watch your favorites in stunning High Definition.
If you haven't already jumped on the bandwagon, consider it the next time you plunk down $3.99 for that movie at your local video store. And if someone's birthday is close, consider a gift membership! The 2 Week Trial is a great way to get started. Netflix.com
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