Man On A Ledge (2012)
Certified: 12
Duration: 102 minutes
Directed by: Asger Leth
Starring: Sam Worthington, Elizabeth Banks, Jamie Bell, Anthony Mackie, Genesis Rodriguez, Ed Harris, Kyra Sedgwick, Edward Burns, Titus Welliver
KRS release
Sam Worthington plays escaped convict Nick Cassidy who eludes his guard to finally get on a window ledge at the Roosevelt Hotel’s 21st floor. He declares his innocence and wants detective Jack Dougherty (Edward Burns) to bring in police psychologist Lydia Mercer (Elizabeth Banks). The latter is not too happy after a negative experience with a previous “jumper” case.
The fact that from the start we are in the know that the man on the ledge never has the intention of making the actual jump makes us focus not on his plight but at what is happening behind the scenes- Johan Galea
The entire scene is under the control of Detective Marcus (Titus Welliver). Also on the scene is TV journalist Suzie Morales (Kyra Sedgwick) which gives viewers at home minute-by-minute updates.
However, all the players are unaware of Nick’s past as an NYPD officer convicted for a $40 million diamond heist at the expense of entrepreneur David Englander (Ed Harris). The building opposite the hotel whose ledge Nick is precariously perched on is owned by David.
Nick’s ex-partner, Mike Ackerman (Anthony Mackie), tries to assist the situation but it is Nick’s brother Joey (Jamie Bell) who races against time to prove his brother’s innocence.
Nick must buy his brother enough time in order for him to get the proof he needs while Lydia is not sure whether Nick is being honest.
This is an interesting thriller that has enough twists and variations in its structure and storytelling to elevate it above the pack. Based around a tasty one-liner idea that is also well-encapsulated into the title, this film milks that concept for all its worth. The emphasis here is not on realism but rather on the intent of entertaining and taking the audience on a ride that is akin to a well-synchronised Swiss watch.
Fresh from Avatar and Clash of the Titans, Sam Worthington is well placed to serve as the lynchpin around which the film revolves. His plight is well appreciated by the audience; especially those with a very strong fear of heights.
The fact that this is all a ploy for misdirection and that there is a parallel operation going on, will divide the audience’s attention as the plot unfurls.
The sequences embarked upon by Jamie Bell and the beautiful Genesis Rodriguez are very much in the Mission Impossible vein and push the film into the box-office blockbuster style of entertainment.
Elizabeth Banks looks suitably concerned throughout the film; Ed Burns makes a welcome return, which made me wonder what happened to this actor who had once been such talent and promise (as actor and director); while Ed Harris overacts his way with a sly wink.
The fact that from the start we are in the know that the man on the ledge never has the intention of making the actual jump makes us focus not on the his plight but at what is happening behind the scenes, the story behind such a move and the way his position is perceived by those on surer ground.
The film’s direction is well concentrated and aims to be both over the top yet well coordinated. The result is a film that will have you discussing the whole concept, story and action right down to the bar.