Dancer

Dancer is a documentary that chronicles the turbulent life and career of Ukrainian ballet prodigy Sergei Polunin. It delves into his extraordinary talent from a young age, his rise through the ranks of prestigious ballet companies, and the immense pressure and personal struggles he faced. The film captures his journey as he navigates fame, identity, and the demanding world of professional dance, ultimately leading to a controversial departure from the mainstream.

Dancer received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its intimate portrayal of Sergei Polunin's artistry and personal struggles. Reviewers highlighted the film's access to Polunin and its ability to capture both the beauty of ballet and the darkness of the artist's inner turmoil. While some found the narrative occasionally disjointed, the consensus was that it offered a compelling look at a once-in-a-generation talent wrestling with his demons.

• Praised for its intimate and unflinching look at a gifted dancer's life.
• Commended for showcasing the beauty and brutality of the ballet world.
• Some critics noted a lack of narrative cohesion but were drawn in by the subject's charisma.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's deep dive into Sergei Polunin's personal journey and artistic talent. Many found the documentary to be inspiring, highlighting Polunin's raw emotion and incredible skill. Audiences were particularly moved by the portrayal of his internal conflicts and his impact on the world of dance.

Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 2017 Independent Spirit Awards.

The documentary features a striking performance by Polunin dancing naked to Hozier's "Take Me to Church," choreographed by David LaChapelle, which went viral and brought him significant mainstream attention.