Polina
Polina is a young dancer from a modest family. After years of ballet academy, she is accepted by the Bolshoi; still, she decides to try and audition of a modern dance company in France. She makes it, but her journey will not end there...
Insights
Plot Summary
The film follows Polina, a young girl living in the Soviet Union who dreams of becoming a dancer. Despite her father's strict training and the societal expectations of the time, Polina fiercely pursues her passion. Her journey takes her from the rigid discipline of classical ballet to the expressive freedom of contemporary dance, challenging her perceptions of art and life.
Critical Reception
Polina received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its stunning cinematography, the raw and captivating performance of its lead actress, and its emotional depth. Some found the narrative a bit slow-paced, but the overall consensus highlighted its artistic merit and its exploration of artistic freedom.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its visual beauty and evocative dance sequences.
- Anastasia Shevtsova's debut performance is a standout.
- A compelling, albeit occasionally melancholic, exploration of artistic sacrifice and liberation.
Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's beautiful portrayal of dance and the emotional journey of the protagonist. Many found it inspiring, though some wished for a more dynamic plot.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Film at the San Sebastián International Film Festival.
Fun Fact
Lead actress Anastasia Shevtsova was a real-life ballet dancer discovered by director Olias Barco, and the film marked her acting debut.
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