Greetings again from the darkness. One can't help but wonder how differently this documentary would have turned out had its subject, Pina Bausch, not passed away from cancer just days before filming commenced. Instead of direct insight from the famously creative choreographer, we witness the tributes she earned ... dancing from those who brought her work to life.
Director Wim Wenders had planned for years to document Ms. Bausch and her fascinating interpretative dance company. When 3D technology became portable enough to work with, he knew it was time. Unfortunately, Pina was diagnosed with cancer and passed away just a few days later. What we see on screen are re-creations of her work by those dancers who worked so closely with her. The reverence is obvious during the brief statements from the key dancers. Wenders presents these segments, not as talking heads, but instead of live head shots with voice-overs. A very nice touch.
The earthy elements of water, soil and rock are on full display as are the street scenes Pina utilized over the years. The dances are brought to life for the first time without Pina's direction. It's clear her presence and spirit remain with the dancers. The interpretive dance numbers may not be to everyone's taste, but the talent of the dancers, and especially the famed choreographer are quite obvious and impressive.
Director Wim Wenders had planned for years to document Ms. Bausch and her fascinating interpretative dance company. When 3D technology became portable enough to work with, he knew it was time. Unfortunately, Pina was diagnosed with cancer and passed away just a few days later. What we see on screen are re-creations of her work by those dancers who worked so closely with her. The reverence is obvious during the brief statements from the key dancers. Wenders presents these segments, not as talking heads, but instead of live head shots with voice-overs. A very nice touch.
The earthy elements of water, soil and rock are on full display as are the street scenes Pina utilized over the years. The dances are brought to life for the first time without Pina's direction. It's clear her presence and spirit remain with the dancers. The interpretive dance numbers may not be to everyone's taste, but the talent of the dancers, and especially the famed choreographer are quite obvious and impressive.