Cast
View All
Vivian Pickles
as Isadora Duncan
Peter Bowles
as Paris Singer
Alexei Jawdokimov
as Sergei Yessenin
Murray Melvin
as Photographer
Jeanne Le Bars
as Wilma
Alita Naughton
as Journalist
Sandor Elès
as Bugatti
Lucinda Curtis
as Girl in Dressing Room
Ken Russell
as Captain Patterson
David Savile
as Chauffeur
Sewell Stokes
as Narrator (voice)
Michael Palin
as Jazz Band Undertaker (uncredited)
Eric Idle
as Jazz Band Chauffeur (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Ken Russell
Writer
- Sewell Stokes
- Ken Russell
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Isadora Duncan, the Biggest Dancer in the World represents a fascinating example of 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 Ken Russell 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 1966, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Isadora Duncan, the Biggest Dancer in the World took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 67 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 101 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 63 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1966, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Isadora Duncan, the Biggest Dancer in the World shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bob Marley: The Making of a Legend, which focuses more on action than character development, Isadora Duncan, the Biggest Dancer in the World subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir and Jerry Lee Lewis: Trouble in Mind explore similar territory, Isadora Duncan, the Biggest Dancer in the World 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: January 2, 1966
- Runtime: 1h 7m
