CUNNINGHAM
This mesmerizing 3D doc brings to vivid life the work of Merce Cunningham, a radical choreographer who was at the forefront of modern dance for over 50 years.
Weaving together archival footage of Merce Cunningham with modern day performances of his company’s most hypnotic dance numbers, the pioneering choreographer’s work is brought to stunning light in director Alla Kovgan’s 3D documentary. Though Cunningham is often referred to as an avant-garde choreographer, he denounced such a limiting moniker, instead preferring to be known simply as an ordinary dancer. But there’s no arguing that Cunningham was anything but ordinary. Not a believer in traditional costumes and set pieces, his dance numbers are stripped of the confines of description and predictability. A true testament to the work and life of Cunningham, the film includes incredible behind-the-scenes footage of his company’s rehearsals as well as actual performance footage. These dances are incredibly contrasted with the same numbers being performed just as hypnotically today. With additional artistic contributions from icons such as Andy Warhol and John Cage (whose intensely beautiful love letters to the choreographer are sprinkled throughout), Cunningham is a powerful, rich profile of a complicated and passionate artist. Whether you are a dance enthusiast or novice, you won’t want to miss this incredibly immersive in-theater experience.
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