DVD review: Life on the Line (3 out of 5)

The work of the lineman is a very American phenomenon.
John Travolta (left) in Life on the LineJohn Travolta (left) in Life on the Line
John Travolta (left) in Life on the Line

It’s a dangerous enough job in any part of the world, but there’s a very real love and admiration for these men and women who install and maintain electrical power supplies in the USA.

By its very nature, the job often involves repairing supplies in extreme weather, so it’s no great surprise that there are fatalities.

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Life on the Line is based on real events and tells the story of Beau Ginner, a man haunted by the death of his younger brother in a work accident.

He’s left to raise his niece Bailey (Kate Bosworth) alone.

John Travolta plays Beau. bringing his experience and compassion to the role.

There are various sub-plots involving Bailey, other linemen and the local community.

The focal point, though, is a fierce storm that is set to hit the area, leaving the linemen with a highly dangerous situation and giving Beau a life or death decision.

Director David Hackl works hard to show us the very human side of the linemen, but it’s only a backdrop as we wait for the real action when the storm arrives.

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