Movie spotlight
NY Export: Opus Jazz
Shot on location in New York City and starring an ensemble cast of New York City Ballet dancers, NY Export: Opus Jazz takes Jerome Robbins‘ 1958 “ballet in sneakers” and reimagines it for a new generation in this scripted adaptation. After winning an Audience Award at the 2010 South by Southwest Film Festival, the film aired nationally on PBS’ Great Performances series and was nominated for the Rose d’Or Award.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary captures the vibrant spirit of "Opus Jazz," a groundbreaking television ballet from 1959. It revisits the iconic choreography and music through a new generation of dancers and performers in contemporary New York City. The film explores the legacy of the original work and its enduring influence on dance and visual arts. It offers a unique blend of historical reverence and modern interpretation.
Critical Reception
NY Export: Opus Jazz has been praised for its innovative approach to preserving and reinterpreting a classic piece of dance history. Critics have lauded the blend of archival footage with new performances, highlighting the energy and talent of the contemporary dancers. Audience reception has been positive, appreciating the film's artistic vision and its accessibility to both fans of the original and newcomers.
What Reviewers Say
A visually stunning tribute to a seminal work of television dance.
Effectively bridges the gap between mid-century modernism and contemporary performance.
Captures the improvisational energy and dynamic movement of 'Opus Jazz' with fresh vitality.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews is not readily available for this specific documentary.
Fun Fact
The original 'Opus Jazz' ballet, which this film documents and reimagines, was groundbreaking for its time, featuring jazz music and modern dance in a way that was rarely seen on television in 1959.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources