Watch Memphis Majic

Memphis Majic is a 2019 documentary film that explores the history and culture of Jookin - a style of dance that originated in Memphis, Tennessee. The film highlights the contributions of various dancers and musicians who helped create and sustain the Jookin culture. The film follows the life of Lil Buck, one of the most prominent Jookin dancers in the world. Lil Buck started dancing when he was just a young boy, and his talent was recognized early on. As he grew older, Lil Buck continued to refine his craft and became known not only for his incredible Jookin skills but also for his ability to merge other styles of dance with Jookin. He has collaborated with artists such as Yo-Yo Ma, Madonna, and Spike Lee, and his performance at TED Global went viral, garnering over 3 million views.

As the film progresses, we learn more about the people and places that helped shape the Jookin culture. We meet other Jookin dancers like Justin Merrick, who started dancing as a way to escape the violence and poverty in his community. He eventually became a full-time Jookin dancer and has competed in numerous competitions across the country. Ladia Yates, another dancer featured in the film, is the only female member of the famous dance group, The Memphis Jookin City Squad. She is also a choreographer and has worked on projects for BET, Nickelodeon, and others.

The film also explores the origins of Jookin and how it evolved over time. Jookin was born in the 1990s in Memphis, and its roots can be traced back to African American street dancers who performed on the city's sidewalks and in its nightclubs. Jookin was heavily influenced by other dance styles, such as breakdance, tap, and ballet, and it incorporates elements such as footwork, gliding, and popping.

Throughout the film, Lil Buck and the other dancers are seen rehearsing and performing, showcasing their incredible talent and precision. One of the highlights of the film is when Lil Buck performs his interpretation of "The Dying Swan," a famous ballet piece, in front of a group of amazed children at a dance school in France. His performance is both graceful and powerful, and it highlights the versatility of Jookin as a dance style.

In addition to the dance performances, the film also features interviews with a variety of experts and enthusiasts, providing context and insight into the Jookin culture. Among those interviewed are The Atlantic journalist Jemele Hill, who discusses the role that Jookin plays in the Black community, and Jookin instructor Daniel Price, who talks about the importance of mentorship and dedication in Jookin.

Overall, Memphis Majic is a fascinating and engaging documentary that offers a captivating look at the world of Jookin. It is a celebration of the artistry and creativity that goes into this unique dance style, and it is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Memphis community. Whether you are a fan of dance, music or simply interested in exploring different cultures, Memphis Majic is a film that is definitely worth checking out.

Memphis Majic is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes.