The Last Great Circus Flyer

The Last Great Circus Flyer is a deeply engaging 2015 documentary, a must-see for enthusiasts of circus history, as it brings a captivating true story to the big screen. The film features detailed interviews, including those with Paul Binder, Armando Farfan Jr., and Renato Fernandes. The documentary director, Philip Weyland, has brought a compelling account of one of the most influential trapeze artists in the world, Miguel Vazquez, and his journey to create the fabled quadruple somersault.

The documentary delves into the intensely enthralling world of a circus artist, giving audiences an in-depth view into the passion, dedication, and persistence it requires to be a circus performer, especially a famed trapeze artist of the likes of Miguel Vazquez. The film's title itself hints at the importance of Vazquez's endeavors and presents him as the "Last Great Circus Flyer.”

At the heart of the film is Miguel Vazquez, the world-renowned Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey trapeze artist. He is credited as the first person to successfully perform the quadruple somersault in a circus show, a seemingly impossible feat in its time. This achievement is recognized as one of the greatest in the history of the circus, with Miguel standing as an iconic figure in trapeze artistry because of it.

However, Miguel Vazquez's journey wasn’t always triumphant or straightforward. The documentary paints an intimate portrait of this man's life, starting from his humble beginnings in Mexico, showing his technical genius and arduous efforts to continue to push the boundaries of his passion and profession. The narrative also navigates through the numerous challenges he faced throughout his career, which adds a profound layer of human resilience to the story.

Paul Binder, Armando Farfan Jr., and Renato Fernandes serve as storytellers in the film, taking us through the ebbs and flows of Miguel's career graph, their perspectives offering valuable insight into him as an individual and an artist. They provide intimate details of the circus life, the camaraderie, the calamities, and the undying spirit of adventure that resides within each performer. In many ways, their voices weave the fabric of the narrative, turning it into a tale of passion, art, and determination.

The director of this film, Philip Weyland, does an excellent job of illustrating not just Miguel's life but also encapsulating the essence of being a part of the traveling circus. With the use of archival footage and photographs, as well as interviews and narratives from key figures in Miguel's life, Weyland brings the viewer into the heart of the circus arena. His presentation of the circus experience offers a sense of nostalgia and invites the audience into a magical world of awe, suspense, and spectacle.

What sets this film apart is its delicate balance between acknowledging Vazquez's extraordinary skill and celebrating the true essence of the circus. It's not just about the thrill; it's about the challenges, sacrifices, and guts required to pursue greatness. While the film does satiate the adrenaline junkie's palate with its electrifying depictions of daring acts, devices, and adventurous accomplishments, it equally impresses upon the viewer the depth of commitment, the anguish of failures, and the values of perseverance and dedication.

The Last Great Circus Flyer's cinematography is in itself a piece of art, capturing the vibrance of the circus ring, the intense practice sessions, the light-hearted camaraderie behind the scenes, and the anticipation of a watching crowd, taking the audience on an enchanting visual journey.

Overall, The Last Great Circus Flyer showcases an extraordinary tale of human potential, revealing the realities behind the dazzling lights and breathtaking stunts of the circus. Through the captivating journey of Miguel Vazquez, it demystifies the circus and brings the audience closer to understanding the hardships and triumphs of these awe-inspiring artists who defy gravity with their passion, skill, and unwavering determination. It's a captivating cinematic experience that blends artistry, athleticism, and personal narratives, making it an enchanting and enlightening watch for all.