Watch Miss Hill: Making Dance Matter

Miss Hill: Making Dance Matter is a 2014 documentary film directed by Greg Vander Veer that tells the story of a pioneering figure in American dance, Martha Hill. The documentary follows Hill's journey as she transforms the dance scene in the United States and becomes a revered figure in the profession. The movie features interviews with many of Hill's former students and colleagues, as well as archival footage of Hill herself.

Born in Ohio in 1900, Martha Hill was a dancer, choreographer, and teacher who had an enormous impact on the development of modern dance in the United States. She was a member of the influential Bennington College Dance Department, where she trained many of the leading dancers and choreographers of the mid-20th century. Her work focused on the development of the individual dancer and the relationship between dance and society. She believed that dance was an important means of expression that could help people connect with one another and with the world around them.

Miss Hill: Making Dance Matter begins with a brief overview of Hill's early life and career, before focusing on her time at Bennington College in the 1930s and 1940s. This period was a pivotal one for American dance, as Hill and her colleagues sought to create a uniquely American style of dance that would rival the European modern dance scene. The film explores the various challenges that Hill and her students faced during this time, including financial hardships, artistic disagreements, and the outbreak of World War II.

Throughout the movie, we hear from many of Hill's former students and colleagues, who share their memories of working with her and describe the impact she had on their lives and careers. These interviews provide a rich insight into Hill's teaching methods and philosophy, and paint a vivid picture of life at Bennington College during this vibrant and creative period.

One of the film's most engaging interviews is with Robert Battle, the renowned choreographer and artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Battle was one of Hill's last students at Bennington, and he speaks eloquently about the influence she had on his career and artistic vision. He describes how Hill empowered him to express himself through dance, and instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility to the art form and its audience.

Another important figure in the film is Diana Byer, the founder and artistic director of the New York Theatre Ballet. Byer was also a student of Hill's, and she speaks passionately about the impact Hill had on her life and career. She recalls how Hill encouraged her to think deeply about the role of dance in society and to use her art to make a positive impact on the world.

The documentary also features interviews with Trevor Carlson, a former student of Hill's who went on to work as a choreographer and dance educator. Carlson provides valuable insights into Hill's teaching methods and describes how she challenged students to think outside the box and push themselves creatively.

Overall, Miss Hill: Making Dance Matter is a loving tribute to a woman who played a major role in shaping the American dance scene. Through interviews with Hill's former students and colleagues, archival footage, and insightful narration, the film provides a fascinating look at a transformative period in American dance history. It is a must-see for anyone interested in modern dance and the role of the arts in society.

Miss Hill: Making Dance Matter is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.