Carmen & Geoffrey

Carmen & Geoffrey is an exceptional 2005 documentary film that travels through time to shed light on the lives of two undeniable stalwarts in the realm of dance and theatre - Carmen De Lavallade and Geoffrey Holder. Directed by multi-faceted Linda Atkinson and accomplished photographer Nick Doob, this movie takes you on an extraordinary artistic voyage of these two impenetrable luminaries, who not only stood as icons in their respective arenas but have been illustrious paramours throughout their inspiring journey.

Carmen De Lavallade is an illustrious American dancer and choreographer whose contribution to the arts is immeasurable. The film starts with Carmen's early life in Los Angeles, her training with ballet mistress Melissa Blake, and her opportunity of a lifetime with Lester Horton. It traces her move to New York where she graced the stages of the Metropolitan Opera and Broadway, becoming a muse for esteemed choreographers like Alvin Ailey.

Geoffrey Holder, on the other hand, was a man of manifold talents. A distinctive dancer, choreographer, musician, and costume designer, Holder was also a venerated actor and painter. Born in Trinidad, Holder made his mark in the world of Broadway where he won two Tony Awards for his direction and costume design for the musical, 'The Wiz'. Yet, beyond his triumphs in theatre, his indomitable creativity also found expression in painting and literature. The narrative beautifully outlines Holder's early inspirations, his breakthrough in Paris and subsequent success in the USA.

The film blooms by showcasing the remarkable amalgamation of their love and their bonds with the world of art. What makes their life story particularly compelling is their unyielding dedication to their craft amidst the racially prejudiced industry of the mid-20th Century. Both of them, individually and together, broke several racial lines in modern dance and theatre, becoming a source of inspiration for future generations.

Carmen & Geoffrey offers a perfect blend of vintage and contemporary footage, vibrant anecdotes, and captivating interviews. It steps away from the traditional chronological documentation of their lives and instead arranges their personal experiences, creative processes, and professional achievements in such a way that they all naturally converge into the story of their lives.

Moreover, the film provides an extraordinary exhibition of their bodies of work. It brings their artistic genius to life through several dance sequences, clothed in the splendor of the classical and modern styles. Their talents light up the screen, from Carmen's ethereal emoting in her dances to Geoffrey's larger-than-life brilliance and their poignant duets that speak to their connection not just as performing artists, but also as lovers.

This narrative is further enriched by the contributions of prominent figures from the world of performing arts such as Alvin Ailey, who was a significant figure in both their lives. Acclaimed dance commentator Gus Solomons, dance historian Jennifer Dunning, and few close friends and family also provide invaluable reflections on their indelible influence.

Carmen & Geoffrey is, therefore, not just a film, but a rich tapestry weaving together the contemporaneous personal and artistic chapters of Carmen De Lavallade and Geoffrey Holder. It is an appealing and articulate rendition of their undying passion for their craft and each other. This beautiful marriage of talents is a testament to a time when art was not just a profession, but a life-long vocation.

With its heartfelt interviews, thrilling dance footage, and charismatic storytelling, Carmen & Geoffrey is much more than a documentary. It stands as a source of inspiration to artists and art enthusiasts alike, irrespective of their genre, encouraging them to follow their passion unapologetically and relentlessly. Atkinson and Doob have crafted an engaging love letter to these two unique artists that retraces their outstanding achievements, calling attention to their irreplaceable importance to art history, and there could have been no better tribute.