Delve into the captivating world of ballet with these eight iconic movies and TV shows that bring this timeless art form to life, from classic films like The Red Shoes and The Turning Point to modern masterpieces like Black Swan and Étoile.
The World of Ballet: A Timeless Art Form
Ballet has been a staple of the performing arts for centuries, captivating audiences with its elegance, ‘beauty’ , and drama. From classic films to modern TV shows, ballet has played a significant role in storytelling, inspiring some of the most iconic performances on screen. In this article, we’ll explore eight of the best movies and TV shows about ballet that have brought this timeless art form to life.
The Golden Age of Ballet: Classic Films
In the early days of Hollywood, filmmakers like Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger created cinematic masterpieces that showcased the world of ballet in all its glory. One such film is ‘The Red Shoes’ , a 1948 British classic loosely based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale. Starring Moira Shearer as aspiring ballerina Victoria Page, this film features opulently staged ballet numbers and explores the darker side of the dance world.
Another iconic film from this era is ‘The Turning Point’ , starring Shirley MacLaine and Anne Bancroft as two fictionalized ballerinas. This 1977 drama not only delves into the world of ballet but also explores the complex relationships between dancers, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the art form.
Ballet on Screen: A Modern Perspective
In recent years, filmmakers have continued to push the boundaries of storytelling through ballet. ‘Suspiria‘ , a 1977 supernatural horror film by Dario Argento , is a prime example of this trend. This Italian film tells the story of an American ballet student who uncovers a dark secret behind her prestigious dance school.
Suspiria is a 1977 Italian horror film directed by Dario Argento, known for its vivid colors and eerie atmosphere.
The film tells the story of an American ballet student who discovers that her new dance academy is home to a coven of witches.
Suspiria's score, composed by Goblin, features haunting melodies that have become iconic in horror cinema.
The film has been praised for its atmospheric tension and graphic violence, influencing many other horror films.
More recently, ‘The Company’ (2003) offers a thoughtful glimpse into the world of ballet, following the life of a talented dancer as she navigates the challenges of her career and personal relationships. Starring Neve Campbell, James Franco , and Malcolm McDowell , this ensemble drama is a must-watch for anyone interested in the dance world.
Ballet in Popular Culture
Ballet has also played a significant role in popular culture, inspiring numerous films, TV shows, and stage productions. ‘Center Stage‘ , released in 2000, is a teen drama that holds a special place in the hearts of many who grew up watching it on VHS or DVD. This film tells the story of an eclectic group of young dancers at the American Ballet Academy , featuring a standout 10-minute ballet sequence choreographed by Susan Stroman .
Another iconic film from this era is ‘Billy Elliot’ , directed by Stephen Daldry and starring Jamie Bells as the titular character. This coming-of-age drama earned numerous awards nominations and has become a modern classic, inspiring a successful stage musical adaptation.
Billy Elliot is a British musical written by Lee Hall, with music by Elton John.
The story follows a young boy's journey from a working-class family in County Durham to becoming a professional ballet dancer.
In 2005, the original London production won four Olivier Awards and was nominated for ten.
The musical has since been performed worldwide, including on Broadway.
Its success can be attributed to its universal themes of following one's passion and overcoming adversity.
The Art of Ballet: A Psychological Thriller
In 2010, Darren Aronofsky created ‘Black Swan‘ , a psychological horror film that pushed the boundaries of storytelling through ballet. Starring Natalie Portman as Nina Sayers, this film explores the darker side of the dance world, featuring stunning performances and choreography.
The Contemporary Scene: TV Shows and New Films
In recent years, TV shows like ‘Bunheads‘ , created by Amy Sherman-Palladino , have brought ballet to the small screen. This short-lived but critically acclaimed series follows the life of a former ballerina who returns to her hometown to teach ballet.
More recently, Sherman-Palladino has brought ballet to the forefront in her new Amazon Prime series ‘Étoile‘ , an engaging comedy-drama about two fictional dance companies that swap dancers and choreographers. Featuring a talented ensemble cast, including Luke Kirby , Charlotte Gainsbourg , and Lou de Laâge , this show is a must-watch for anyone interested in the world of ballet.
Étoile is a French word that translates to 'star' in English.
In astronomy, an étoile refers to a star or celestial body.
However, the term is also used in various other contexts, such as in sports (e.g., Étoile Sportive de Sahel) and fashion (e.g., La Vie en Rose Étoile perfume).
The word has multiple meanings depending on its usage, but it generally implies something shining or prominent.
Conclusion
Ballet has been a staple of the performing arts for centuries, captivating audiences with its elegance, ‘beauty’ , and drama. From classic films to modern TV shows, ballet has played a significant role in storytelling, inspiring some of the most iconic performances on screen. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just a fan of the art form, these eight movies and TV shows are sure to delight and inspire.
