Polina

Polina is a 2016 French drama, directed by Angelin Preljocaj and Valérie Müller-Preljocaj, and is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Bastien Vivès. The film navigates the life of a young Russian dancer as she discovers her passion, explores different dance forms, and struggles to fit in while finding her own unique identity in the world of dance.

Polina introduces us to a young Russian girl named Polina (Veronika Zhovnytska), living in a poor, snow-laden suburb of Moscow, with her working-class parents who save every penny to afford her ballet lessons. From a young age, Polina has been trained in the discipline of classical ballet, with her parents having dreams of their daughter joining the prestigious Bolshoi Ballet company. This goal becomes the driving force of Polina's life, shaping each of her days with grueling training sessions.

As Polina grows into a young woman, played by the real-life professional dancer Anastasia Shevtsova, her path takes a significant turn. She is introduced to contemporary dance by a French dancer named Adrien (Niels Schneider), whose free-flowing dance style deeply intrigues her. This encounter with Adrien awakens a new artistic curiosity within Polina that cannot be tamed. Rejecting the destiny her parents have envisioned for her, she takes a leap of faith and moves to France to follow Adrien and study contemporary dance.

In France, she comes under the expert guidance of the demanding choreographer Liria Elsaj (played by French actress Juliette Binoche), who becomes an essential figure in her evolving relationship with dance. Binoche brings gravitas and experience to the role as she challenges Polina, pushing her to the limits of her physical and emotional boundaries and urging her to delve deeper into her personal experiences to inform her dance.

Throughout the film, Polina has to not only navigate cultural differences and the hardships of immigrant life in France but also cope with economic difficulties, leading her to odd jobs far from the dance world. She battles with the realization that passion and talent alone may not be enough to succeed in this competitive world that demands not only tremendous skill but also the ability to network and play politics. Despite these obstacles, Polina's resolve to dance and discover her own unique expression does not waver.

Polina is set against the backdrop of stark, grimy Moscow suburbs to the expressive, avant-garde dance scene in France, encompassing a panorama of colors, culture, and emotions. The beautifully choreographed dance sequences punctuate each phase of Polina's journey. The contrast between the rigid discipline of ballet and the emotionally charged and improvisational nature of contemporary dance is stunningly realized with the unflinching gaze of the director duo.

The movie is an exploration of artistry, identity, and determination. It delves deep into the heart of a dancer's journey, from technique to interpretation, from fulfilling expectations to daring to step out of the box, from choreographed steps to free-flowing soulful expressions. It emphasizes the concept that dance is not just physical acrobatics but an outlet for emotions and inner feelings.

In her portrayal of Polina, Anastasia Shevtsova delivers a compelling performance. As a professional dancer, her movements are exquisite, and she seamlessly translates her experience to embody Polina's struggle between her rigorous ballet training and her newfound passion for contemporary dance. She effectively portrays the angst, rebellion, curiosity, determination of a young woman coming of age in the world of dance.

Polina is a story about passion and following one's heart despite the hurdles in the path. It captures the essence of the vast and complex world of dance through the eyes of its young protagonist. For those who love dance, this film is a must-watch. But even for those who don't, Polina has much to offer, including the universal theme of a journey towards self-discovery and the courage it takes to follow one's passion. Polina effectively blends the elements of drama and dance, making it an engaging, emotional, and visually compelling experience.