Man on a Ledge - A Movie Review

What’s that lurking up on the edge of that building?

Man on a Ledge crept its way into theaters in 2012. Nick Cassidy, an ex-cop, stands on the ledge of a New York City hotel. As police officers and city-goers prepare for the worst, Nick secretly orchestrates a high-stake heist as a distraction.

This film is not what everyone thinks it is and that’s the best part about Man on a Ledge. This film dictates a risky crime story with clever story tactics. When films use the unexpected then you know you’re in for an entertaining film.

Performances in Man on a Ledge are solid. One of the film's standout aspects is its cast. Sam Worthington portrays Nick Cassidy. His actions for standing on the edge of a building are very different from what everyone thinks. In real life, Worthington has a fear of heights but he didn’t decline because he was so fascinated by the script.

In one of my favorite roles, Elizabeth Banks had a unique approach to her role. She is the standout performer with how versatile she is. I like how she played the character, appearing relaxed and calm. Lydia Mercer is a police negotiator, assigned to talk Nick down. She derives a positive representation of anyone in her position.

Jaime Bell and Genisis Rodrigues had the best roles. They are a memorable comedic duo. I was surprised to learn that this was Rodriguez’s debut. Joey and Angie may behave like Harry and Marv but they’re not your average bungling burglars.

Ed Harris plays David Englander, a wealthy businessman with a vendetta against Nick. More credits include J. Smith-Cameron, Anthony Mackie, Patrick Collins, and Afton Williamson. Every role is crucial, including William Sadler’s role as a valet.

The ensemble has an important part as city people who witness the harrowing events. I learned that some people encourage jumping. While there are crowds who do this, it is unrealistic that nobody is against the situation. Everyone is excited about the situation.

Man on a Ledge is expertly shot. No green screens or CGI was used. That’s right, the film was shot on an actual ledge of the Roosevelt Hotel 200 feet above Manhatten! After learning that I hold my head high for the actors.

The restraining cables were either hidden or edited out in post-production. Scenes are filmed high above the ground making your stomach lurch when you look down at the tremendous height. Cinematographer Paul Cameron deserves recognition for his work in capturing the breathtaking vistas of New York City to heighten the suspense.

Asgar Leth’s story decision to unveil Nick’s true intentions is a smart narrative choice. I wasn’t looking forward to watching an entire movie about a man threatening to jump off a building. There’s more to it than that. He intercepts flashbacks explaining Nick’s actions.

However, the film is not without its flaws. Some elements are unrealistic and push the boundaries by the climax. Man on a Ledge is meant as a thriller but it turns into a comedy, particularly with the police’s actions and how they deal with the situation.

And let’s not forget about the burglar subplot. The fact that the duo manages to carry out their plan with relative ease and escape multiple close calls strains credibility. While this subplot adds excitement to the story, it also highlights the film's departure from realism.

Man on a Ledge is a captivating thriller and it also may make you laugh depending on how you view it. It may test the limits of believability but it’s an adrenaline-pumping film.