Writer: Peter Chai

Writer Ratings:
Overall: 3.5 Out of 5
Cast: 4.5 Out of 5
Plot: 4.0 Out of 5
Effects: 3.5 Out of 5
Cinematography: 3.5 Out of 5

Watch this if you liked: “Phonebooth” & “The Negotiator”

If you are writing down a list of action-thrillers to keep an eye out in 2012, "Man On A Ledge" is definitely a must watch piece for you.

Director Asger Leth wants you to see how it feels to put your feet near the end of a person's life, with his directorial effort in "Man On A Ledge", a story about Nick Cassidy (Sam Worthington), an escaped convict who was jailed for stealing a very expensive diamond from a famous businessman named David Englander (Ed Harris). One day, Nick creates a huge chaos in the city of New York when he decides to stand on a ledge of a hotel in Manhattan, in what is seen as a suicide attempt while receiving assistance from the beautiful Detective Lydia Mercer (Elizabeth Banks).

It is hard to resist looking back at Sam Worthington previous roles such as in James Cameron's record breaking 3D production, "Avatar" and Jonathan Liebesman's "Wrath Of The Titans", however in this movie, the British-born Australian actor brings you the combination of anxiety and coolness with his acting edge, that's literally on a ledge. As the plot moves slowly, audiences will try to crack their heads to guess his next move as police squads and the bustling New Yorkers crowd around him. Do not be surprised if you find yourself cringing in anticipation when his character tries to attempt jumping off the 21st floor of the famous Roosevelt Hotel.

It is good to see Golden Globe Award winner Ed Harris plays an evil role in this time around. However, you must pay your attention to action scenes done by former child star Jamie Bell, who plays Cassidy's brother, and Miami-born actress Genesis Rodriguez, Bell's girlfriend in the movie. The duo mix their sense of humour with action while crossing hurdles to help Cassidy to steal a diamond. Moreover, having the sexy Rodriguez on screen doesn't hurt either.

When it comes to the cinematography of this movie, the different angles of long shots taken from the ledge, to the people on the ground of the city are truly commendable, as those shots will make audiences feel a sense of vertigo as if they are jumping with Cassidy.

Overall, "Man On A Ledge" may not be a major blockbuster of the year, but its story and thrilling action has the capability to engage with the wide audience and keep them literally at edge.

Cinema Online, 09 February 2012