Movie spotlight
Merab, a devoted dancer, has been training for years with his partner Mary for a spot in the National Georgian Ensemble. The arrival of another male dancer, Irakli, sparks both an intense rivalry and romantic desire that may cause Merab to risk his future in dance as well as his relationships.
In the conservative world of Georgian traditional dance, Merab, a dedicated dancer, finds himself increasingly drawn to Irakli, a charismatic rival. As their forbidden passion ignites, Merab must confront societal expectations and his own desires, risking everything he has ever known for a chance at true love and self-expression. The film beautifully captures the tension between tradition and personal freedom within the vibrant setting of a dance ensemble.
And Then We Danced received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful performances, vibrant cinematography, and sensitive exploration of LGBTQ+ themes within a culturally specific context. Critics lauded its emotional depth and the compelling central romance, though some noted its slow-burn pacing. It became a significant film for its cultural impact in Georgia and beyond.
Praised for its vibrant and energetic dance sequences.
Commended for its sensitive and authentic portrayal of a same-sex relationship in a conservative society.
Hailed for the captivating lead performance by Levan Gelbakhiani.
Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly loved the film, highlighting its emotional impact, the stunning dance performances, and the courageous exploration of love and identity. Many found the central romance deeply moving and appreciated its powerful message of self-acceptance.
Premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and screened at Cannes Film Festival. Won awards at various international film festivals, including Best Film at the Zurich Film Festival.
The film faced protests and controversy in Georgia upon its release due to its LGBTQ+ themes, with some screenings being canceled or moved for safety reasons.
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_And Then We Danced_ is tender, defiant, and quietly powerful. Set in Georgia’s rigid national dance scene, it follows Merab, a young dancer caught between tradition and desire. The lead performance is subtle and affecting, and the choreogr...
"Georgian dance is about masculinity. It used to be softer, but we changed it 50 years ago." This award-winning film demonstrates that the struggle for identity, for becoming truly who we are, is worldwide and culture independent. It's a...
This is a superb film that depicts an excerpt in the life of a young man from Tbilisi - "Merab" (Levan Gelbakhiani) who balances his work in his family restaurant with his training to be a classical dancer at a very tough school that emphas...
Drama queer in Georgia, country where dance is Nation. A fairly classic gay plot on movies, but poetry and dance. Sensitive.
‘And Then We Danced’ is such a special film, crafted with love and necessity, honest in its intentions and pure in heart. I found myself totally swept up in it and, by the end, my heart burst with love for it. This will easily go down as an...