ETOILES: DANCERS OF THE PARIS OPERA BALLET
Directed by: Nils Tavernier.
Produced by: Agathe Berman, Frédéric Bourboulon & Agnès Le Pont.
Director of Photography: Dominique Le Rigoleur & Tavernier.
Edited by: Florence Ricard.
Released by: First Run Features.
Country of Origin: France. 100 min. Not Rated.

Intimate and lovingly produced, Etoiles: Dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet documents the behind-the-scenes life of this eminent company. During three months in 1999, the film accurately captures the private lives of the dancers, their passion for performing and the highly demanding physical challenges that they face at this highly competitive level of artistry. It is a treat to see the dancers being coached in rehearsals - it is like being a fly on the wall. Dance-lovers will especially appreciate viewing up close the intensity of the partnering work, which requires both a high degree of technical expertise and superb acting skills. Of particular interest is how much the style and presence of the former artistic director, the late Rudolph Nureyev, continues to influence the company. One dancer says Nureyev would always say don't be dishonest. He also taught the dancers "a way of carrying yourself, holding your head, how to be on stage." In addition to filming classical ballet and contemporary dance sequences, director Tavernier interviews the opera house management, the teachers of the ballet school, young aspiring etoiles and the company's established stars. All agree how disciplined and determined one must be to achieve the status of etoile (star in French). The final sequence records the last performance of a retiring ballerina at age 40 and the bittersweet backstage party, where she tells the crowd that all the hard work and sacrifice were worth it. If you love the art of dance or want to learn more of this art form, you will find viewing this film definitely worthwhile.

Haila Strauss, Choreographer of over 100 musical theatre productions, Associate Professor of Theatre and Dance, Marymount Manhattan College
October 27, 2003