Watch Mr. Gaga: A True Strory Of Love And Dance
- 2017
- 1 hr 40 min
Mr. Gaga: A True Story of Love and Dance is a documentary film that revolves around the life and career of Ohad Naharin, a world-renowned choreographer and artistic director of the Batsheva Dance Company of Israel, who has been hailed by critics as one of the most influential dancer-choreographers of the 21st century. The film begins with footage of Naharin teaching his dancers the principles of Gaga, a unique movement language that he developed to help dancers connect with their bodies and emotions. Gaga involves a series of movement exercises that encourage dancers to explore the sensations in their bodies and move in a free-flowing, organic way that is both expressive and playful.
As the film unfolds, we learn more about Naharin's personal journey and the events that inspired him to become a dancer-choreographer. Born in Israel in 1952, Naharin grew up in a family that was deeply connected to the arts - his mother was a dance teacher, and his father was a composer. However, despite his talents, Naharin struggled with feelings of insecurity and self-doubt, and it wasn't until he discovered dance that he found a sense of purpose and belonging.
Naharin began his dance training in New York in the 1970s, where he studied with some of the most influential choreographers of the time. He quickly established himself as a rising star in the dance world and was soon recruited by the Batsheva Dance Company, where he began to develop his own unique style of choreography.
Throughout the film, we see footage of Naharin working with his dancers and creating some of his most iconic works, including "Echad Mi Yodea," "Mamootot," and "Tabula Rasa." We also hear from some of his closest collaborators and friends, who offer insights into the artistic process and the impact that Naharin has had on the dance world.
One of the most moving aspects of the film is Naharin's personal story of love and loss. In 1990, he married Mari Kajiwara, a fellow dancer who was also a member of the Batsheva Dance Company. The two formed a deep bond and became the artistic heart of the company, collaborating on many of its most successful works.
Sadly, Kajiwara died of cancer in 2001, leaving Naharin devastated and struggling to find the inspiration to create new work. However, he eventually found his way back to dance, creating powerful pieces that explored his grief and celebrated the memory of his wife.
Overall, Mr. Gaga: A True Story of Love and Dance is a beautifully filmed and emotionally engaging documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the life of one of the world's most innovative and influential choreographers. Whether you're a fan of modern dance or simply interested in exploring the creative process, this film is sure to inspire and delight.