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On the morning of August 7, 1974, a young Frenchman stepped out on a high wire strung between the towers of the World Trade Center. For almost an hour, astonished onlookers a quarter of a mile below stared up in amazement as Philippe Petit “walked, danced, ran and knelt in salute upon the wire.” This is a powerful story that celebrates the heights of human accomplishment.

The subtle interplay between animation, narration and musical score in Sporn’s film not only remains true to Gerstein’s Caldecott Award-winning picture book, but creates a work worthy of acclaim in its own right. Bacon’s versatile score both evokes quiet moments and builds suspense. As the narrator, Gyllenhaal beautifully captures Petit’s exhilaration and spirit.