Cast
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Lynn Seymour
as Narrator
Alastair Macaulay
as Self - Chief Dance Critic: The New York Times
Bob Gottlieb
as Self - Writer and Editor
Judith Mackrell
as Self - Writer and Dance Critic
Lynn Garafola
as Self - Author: 'Diaghilev's Ballets Russes'
Richard Davenport-Hines
as Self - Historian and Author
Anna Pavlova
as Self - Dancer: Ballets Russes (archive footage)
Frederic Franklin
as Self - Dancer: Ballets Russe de Monte Carlo
Elena Gludjidze
as Self - Principal Dancer: English National Ballet
Karl Lagerfeld
as Self
Wayne Eagling
as Self - Artistic Director: English National Ballet
Marie Rambert
as Self - Founder: Ballet Rambert (archive footage)
Joan Acocella
as Self - Dance Critic
Julian Barran
as Self - Art Dealer
Mary Fellows
as Self - Fashion Director and Consultant
Crew
Director
- Ross MacGibbon
Producer
- Ross MacGibbon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
For Art's Sake: The Story of Ballets Russes represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Ross MacGibbon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of For Art's Sake: The Story of Ballets Russes took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 60 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 96 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 262 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While For Art's Sake: The Story of Ballets Russes shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Rhythm is it!, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, For Art's Sake: The Story of Ballets Russes subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Nureyev Unzipped and The Way She Moves explore similar territory, For Art's Sake: The Story of Ballets Russes stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 12, 2009
- Runtime: 1h
