Guess what’s being released soon? None other than Cannes 2016 official selection, The Dancer. This amazing movie tells the story of a young lady and it’s entirely a true story as well. Marie-Louise Fuller (Soko) has been living her most of her life in the American Midwest, where it’s all rodeo wrangling and filthy farming. One night, a barn dance is going on, and her father Ruben (Denis Menochet) invites Fuller to dance with him. She claims to be unable, but that is proven wrong when her abilities are showcased as astounding. But when Daddy death comes unexpectedly, this leaves Fuller to make a bold new decision for her life: Move to New York to live with her mother. When her acting career almost goes awry, it takes a different turn when she gets the unexpected chance to showcase her dancing abilities much to the delight of the audience. Becoming Loïe Fuller, she continues to showcase her serpentine dance which gains the attention of Louis d’Orsay (Gaspard Ulliel) who suggest she take her talent to Paris. Loïe finally decides to move out there when she realizes other people are doing her dance much to her dismay. But even Paris is too much of a struggle itself. Despite the challenges, Loïe finds herself climbing the ladder to success. Her first performance had her pass out from exhaustion, and she even has to deal with financial problems when it comes to one of her biggest shows yet. Despite her downfalls, Loïe still dazzles with her performances.
This is just an amazing film to watch. The graceful movements of Loïe’s add to the feel, and make the story amazing. The lighting is beautifully done, with 75% darkness to give an ominous chilling mysterious feel. With the colourful lights added to Soko’s performances, it brings out a feel that makes it seem like you’re actually there at the show, and it’s like nothing you’ve never seen before. The characters are well acted and the scenes are incredibly astounding with the proper period attire and props. I recommend watching something as extraordinary as this on the big screen as it makes the movements look much more incredible. See it for yourself, and you will learn why Cannes officially selected this gem.