

Movie spotlight
Contemporary Color
In the summer of 2015, legendary musician David Byrne staged an event at Brooklyn's Barclays Center to celebrate the art of Color Guard: synchronized dance routines involving flags, rifles, and sabers. Recruiting performers that include the likes of St. Vincent, Nelly Furtado, Ad-Rock, and Ira Glass to collaborate on original pieces with 10 color guard teams from across the US and Canada, Contemporary Color is a beautifully filmed snapshot of a one-of-a-kind live event.
Insights
Plot Summary
Filmed over three years, 'Contemporary Color' captures the vibrant and often competitive world of the US Color Guard scene. It follows two rival groups, the Boston Crusaders and the Bluecoats, as they prepare for their annual championships, showcasing their dedication, artistry, and the intense pressure of performance. The documentary offers an intimate look at the lives of the participants, exploring themes of teamwork, identity, and the pursuit of perfection in a unique and visually stunning art form.
Critical Reception
Contemporary Color received generally positive reviews from critics, who lauded its unique subject matter, striking visuals, and emotional depth. The film was praised for its ability to humanize the athletes and highlight the passion and hard work involved in competitive color guarding. While some found the pacing occasionally slow, most agreed that the documentary provided a fascinating and often moving glimpse into a subculture rarely seen on screen.
What Reviewers Say
Visually captivating with a surprisingly emotional core.
Offers a deep dive into a unique and misunderstood art form.
Highlights the dedication and passion of the athletes.
Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's stunning visuals and the heartfelt portrayal of the color guard athletes' dedication and hard work. Many found it to be an inspiring and eye-opening look into a competitive world they were previously unfamiliar with.
Fun Fact
The film's director, Bill Morrison, is also known for his work on the critically acclaimed documentary 'Decasia' (2001), which explored the decay of film stock.
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