Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters

Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters is a poignant and inspiring documentary showcasing the profound influence of arts, especially dance, in reflecting and grappling with deeper societal issues. The film tracks the journey of the legendary dancer and choreographer, Bill T. Jones, as he leads the creation of a masterful performance that provides a layered commentary on the AIDS epidemic.

Directed by Rosalynde LeBlanc and Tom Hurwitz, this documentary serves as a testament to the transformative power of creative expression in times of crisis, and as a beacon of hope for resilience and survival. The film’s focal point is the creation and impact of 'D-Man in The Waters', one of Bill T. Jones' most significant works.

Bill T. Jones, renowned for his powerful choreography and complex thematic expressions through dance, utilizes the medium to navigate through the pain and confusion that marked the AIDS crisis in the late 1980s and early 1990s. 'D-Man in The Waters' is a tribute to Demian Acquavella, a member of the Bill T. Jones/ Arnie Zane Company, who passed away due to AIDS. The performance became symbolic of the fight against the deadly disease, emphasizing the power of community, resilience, and the human spirit.

The film not only delves into the creation process of this iconic dance performance but also explores its cultural and sociopolitical significance. The documentary toggles between archival footage of the original rehearsals and performances, providing rich historical context, and present-day interviews with Jones and other contemporaries. These narratives paint a comprehensive portrait of the era, marking the profound impact of art during times of distress and chaos.

The film also follows a present-day dance class of young dancers at Loyola Marymount University as they reinterpret 'D-Man in The Waters', providing fresh perspectives and interpretations to the seminal work. Through their journey, viewers can draw parallels between the past and the present, understanding the relevance and everlasting impact of the original work on a new generation.

Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters presents ‘D-Man in The Waters’ as an expression of love, loss, survival, and the enduring power of the human spirit. This documentary is not just a study of an iconic dance piece, or a mere biography of a legendary choreographer but a reflection on the power of art as collective memory and healing. It is charged with emotion and entwined with an issue that shook the world, affecting countless lives, but also serving as a testament to resilience and the undying courage to confront adversity head-on.

As much as the documentary is about dance, it transcends that single theme, acting as a historical account and a communal testament to facing adversity. It provides a moving insight into how a community was dealing with an epidemic that was devastating, both physically and emotionally. Through this eye-opening narrative, the viewers will find themselves journeying into a turbulent era, learning about the artists' struggles and their resilience in creating meaningful pieces under the immense weight of adversity.

The film is beautifully layered and complex, blending past and present, art and reality, pain and resilience, in a way that makes it an engaging and emotional ride for the audience. The directors make a conscious effort to step beyond the conventional limitations of a 'dance film,' presenting Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters as a multifaceted portrayal of community, resilience, mourning, creativity, and survival.

Thus, this documentary proves to be an enriching watch, not just for dance enthusiasts, but for anyone interested in history, society, and the profound impact of art on our lives. It celebrates the life, influence, and resilience of Bill T. Jones, and his ability to channel his deepest despair and fears into a work of art that has and will continue to resonate with generations. It’s a stirring tribute and a testimony to art’s indomitable power. Can You Bring It: Bill T. Jones and D-Man in the Waters is a work that is hauntingly beautiful, deeply emotional, and truly inspiring. An honest, poignant, and powerful understanding of the transformative power of art in facing the darkest perils that haunt mankind.