The film itself deserves five stars, however the picture quality of the DVD lets it ever so slightly down - it's fine if watched on a small screen, but it's nowhere near sharp on a large modern HD screen. Having said that, it's nice to be able to own this oldie but goodie and it comes at an affordable price. The sound quality is rather good and English subtitles are available.
The story is set in the world of professional ballet with its jealousies and rivalries. There are some jaw dropping dance scenes, in particular those featuring Mikhail Baryshnikov, but there is not enough of that to make it an out and out dance film. He plays the male dance star and love interest of young ballerina Emilia. The real drama however plays out between the two middle aged female leads, the ageing ballerina Emma (Anne Bancroft) and her friend and former rival Deedee (Shirley McLaine) who chose marriage and motherhood over a dance career. The two women reunite when Deedee's daughter Emilia starts out on what is a promising dancing career. Each woman has regrets, and there is much drama as emotions run high.
Being set in the timeless world of classical ballet this 40+ year old film from the 70s has aged surprisingly well and is still an enjoyable watch. At the time it received numerous Oscar nominations (11 in total), among them acting nominations for both leading ladies as well as supporting actress/actor nominations for Leslie Brown and Mikhail Baryshnikov who prove that they are not only amazing dancers but also have a great presence on the screen and can convincingly deliver a line. Highly recommended for anybody who likes female led drama. And, obviously, for all fans of classical ballet in general and Mr Baryshnikov in particular.
Customer reviews
Top reviews from other countries
cora
Great Film Slightly let Down by DVD Picture Quality
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 August 2018Verified Purchase
Jason Hider
An awesome look at dance history, clever story very real.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 14 June 2021Verified Purchase
An awesome look at dance history, clever story very real.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 14 June 2021
I loved the family feeling of the dance company how they all looked after each other. Sometimes thing don't go the way you hoped this film should make young people realise if they have dream about dance they can do it if they are disciplined. I entered Rambert professional ballet dance school at 26 with one year of prep. I wish i had seen this before. Im also a huge fan of Shirley Maclaine. Fans of her wont be disappointed . Its wonderful!!!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 14 June 2021
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J. Scott-mandeville
Pointed pirouettes
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 12 December 2011Verified Purchase
BMVMK
The passion and sacrifices of two ballerinas that meet again many years after having chosen different paths.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 24 December 2016Verified Purchase
Mrs. C. Callaghan
FAULTY DVD
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 October 2016Verified Purchase
