Sundance Review: Hanging by a Wire is a Fast-Paced Docu-Thriller but Falls Short on Depth

      Hanging by a Wire, directed by Mohammed Ali Naqvi, is an engaging docu-thriller that, while thrilling and dramatic, could explore the depth of its subjects more fully. The film centers on a daring rescue, but seems more concerned with the immediate action than considering ways to prevent such incidents in the future.

      Combining archival materials—including cell phone, drone, and news footage—with interviews and recreations, Hanging by a Wire recounts the intense cable car rescue that took place on August 22, 2023, in Battagram, a secluded village in the northern Pakistani Himalayas. The residents primarily rely on precarious cable cars to navigate the mountains, connecting communities through an informal network. For students in Battagram, the daily commute involves traversing a wire that spans 5,250 feet, hanging 900 feet above a ravine.

      As events unfold into a dramatic narrative of global interest, reporter Sumira Khan of the national SAMAA network, who has ties to the region, begins reporting on the story after receiving information from the community, using drone footage to share the news worldwide. She reveals that the area is largely overlooked by political elites. Although class disparities are hinted at, the film does not delve deeply into this social history, instead choosing to highlight the resilience of the rural communities.

      Several heroes emerge during the crisis, including Sonia Shamroz, the regional police chief, who organizes help from the Pakistani Army. They deploy a helicopter for the rescue, which seems the most logical option, but the rotor wash and crosswinds pose additional dangers to the cable car, which hangs precariously by a single wire. Only one boy is rescued before they must resort to Plan B.

      Simultaneously, Sahib Khan—a local cable system builder who calls himself a “sky pirate”—springs into action. He crosses the valley on a self-designed pulley system but is later advised by Shamroz to allow her chosen rescuer to take over. This rescuer, Ali Swati, is a fitness influencer and gym owner who also operates a zip-line adventure business. Naqvi questions why one rescuer was selected over another, with Khan suggesting it relates to social status, but the film refrains from probing deeper after Shamroz dismisses the concern in a usual talking-head format.

      Ultimately, Hanging by a Wire is a fast-paced, skillfully executed 77-minute rescue tale that leaves viewers somewhat unfulfilled. While the emotional aspect of parents fearing for their children’s safety propels the narrative, there is much more to explore. The film feels like it's only skimming the surface instead of providing a rich depiction of the setting, time, and characters. The only moments offering a genuine look at the characters' work involve Sahib Khan, who is seen operating a cable lift to transport heavy equipment across a river.

      The film lacks an exploration of the local politics. It seems Naqvi is hesitant to deeply examine the contrasts between urban and rural life or the differing approaches of the day’s heroes. Although it’s commendable to highlight Chief Shamroz’s quick thinking, Sumira Khan’s reporting, and the bravery of Sahib Khan and Ali Swati in rescuing those trapped, all while recognizing the trauma experienced by survivors and their families, these individuals are compelling characters. It would have been beneficial for the film to spend more time on this narrative, offering a greater sense of place and emotional resonance.

      Hanging by a Wire made its debut at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.