Backdrop preview Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq backdrop
Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq

Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq (2014)

Feb 05, 2014 1h 31m Documentary

Of all the great ballerinas, Tanaquil Le Clercq may have been the most transcendent. With a body unlike any before hers, she mesmerized viewers and choreographers alike. With her elongated, race-horse physique, she became the new prototype for the great George Balanchine. Because of her extraordinary movement and unique personality on stage, she became a muse to two of the greatest choreographers in dance, George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins. She eventually married Balanchine, and Robbins created his famous version of Afternoon of a Faun for her. She had love, fame, adoration, and was the foremost dancer of her day until it suddenly all stopped. At the age of 27, she was struck down by polio and paralyzed. She never danced again. The ballet world has been haunted by her story ever since.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Nancy Buirski

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Nancy Buirski
Writer
  • Nancy Buirski
Producer
  • Nancy Buirski

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Nancy Buirski 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 2014, 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 Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The costume department created over 265 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2014, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Habibi, which focuses more on action than character development, Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like 100 Years and Microcosmos explore similar territory, Afternoon of a Faun: Tanaquil Le Clercq stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: February 5, 2014
  • Runtime: 1h 31m

Where to Watch

Kino Film Collection

Similar Movies