A Wink And A Smile

A Wink and a Smile is a beguiling, vibrant, and soul-stirring documentary which delves deep into the intriguing subculture of contemporary burlesque performances. From the director Deirdre Allen Timmons, this 2008 documentary is a thought-provoking journey through the world of modern burlesque from the perspective of ten ordinary women daring to explore this seductive art form.

Center stage in this mesmerizing tale stand the charismatic Miss Indigo Blue, a renowned figure of the burlesque scene, along with talented performers Diane Bruch and Casey Ellison, whose breathtaking performances contribute significantly to the movie's appeal. The combined performances from these established burlesque artistes take the audience on an unforgettable journey into the heart of this risqué, yet profoundly empowering art form.

The film traces the transformation of ten 'ordinary' women from all walks of life - a taxidermist, a nurse, a former operatic soprano, a homemaker, among others - who enroll in the Academy of Burlesque in Seattle to learn this age-old art form from Miss Indigo Blue. Equally captivating is the exploration of their motivations, anxieties, triumphs, and awakenings through this journey of self-discovery and self-expression.

The film deftly showcases the somewhat unexplored, empowering lens of the neo-burlesque movement. It sheds light on the modern re-emergence of burlesque as a unique form of expressing female empowerment, individuality, and sexuality on one's own terms - far from the superficiality or vulgarity often associated with it.

The director superbly contrasts the vibrant, glorious universe of feather boas, glitter, high heels, and humorous tease on stage, with the mundane, everyday realities of these women. The result is a balanced view of their journey from classrooms to the spotlight - a transformation that is much more than meets the eye. In balancing the gritty and the glitzy, the comical and the profound, A Wink and A Smile does strike a chord and engage an array of emotions.

The performances by Miss Indigo Blue, an enigmatic teacher with years of experience, Diane Bruch, and Casey Ellison are particularly gripping. The authentic portrayal of their immersive on-stage performances coupled with their genuine off-stage personas gives the film a precious authenticity.

A Wink and A Smile offers a compelling look into the empowering potential of burlesque performances. Simultaneously, it also serves as a commentary on society's attitudes towards female sexuality and body image. By documenting the journey of these ten 'students of burlesque', the film helps juxtapose the inhibitions, societal pressures, and perceived norms around body image and female sexuality against this artistic, fiercely liberating movement. It undoubtedly sparks a conversation - a conversation that goes beyond just being about burlesque.

Artfully knitted together with emotional narratives, awe-inspiring rehearsals, stellar performances, and fitting music, A Wink and A Smile maintains a gripping narrative flow. The documentary’s vibrant aesthetics and lively visual storytelling smoothly carry forward the narrative, keeping the viewer hooked until the end.

Furthermore, director Deirdre Allen Timmons sprinkles the film with bits of history and archival footage. These provide a colorful backdrop and add depth to the understanding of the contemporary burlesque movement, further enriching the narrative.

Engaging, educational, humorous, yet poignant, A Wink and A Smile is an enlightening delve into a captivating subculture that dabbles between the bold and the beautiful, the frivolous and the profound. It is a testament to the spirit of femininity, strength, and self-expressiveness. It's a joyous celebration of the human body in all its forms, a spectacle of choreography, costumes, glamour, and above all, tons of attitude. Every wink, smile, shimmy, and shake is a tale of personal growth, liberation, and empowerment - both on stage and off it.

To conclude, A Wink and a Smile is more than just a documentary about burlesque; it’s a profound story showcasing how an art form can inspire and change the lives of everyday people. It’s an intimate display of the human spirit that invites viewers to look beyond the sequins and feathers to the underlying story of empowerment, self-expression, and personal triumph. Whether you're a fan of the burlesque subculture or new to the concept, this film has something to offer everyone.