Watch Sergei: Unplugged Cinema by Shailendra Singh

Sergei: Unplugged Cinema is a documentary film directed by Shailendra Singh and released in 2020. It follows the life and career of world-renowned ballet dancer Sergei Polunin, who made headlines in 2012 after quitting the Royal Ballet at the age of 22. The film is a collaboration between Polunin and Singh, chronicling the dancer's struggles and accomplishments from childhood to the present day.

The film takes an intimate look at Polunin's life, beginning with his childhood in the Ukraine. Polunin grew up in poverty, and his passion for ballet was the result of an accident: he was sent to a class for girls because no classes were available for boys, but ended up falling in love with ballet. The film presents archival footage of Polunin performing as a child, which is both charming and awe-inspiring.

As Polunin's career began to take off, he faced intense pressure and scrutiny, particularly after being named the youngest ever principal dancer at the Royal Ballet. The film delves into Polunin's struggles with substance abuse and his controversial departure from the Royal Ballet, as well as his subsequent journey to rediscover his passion for dance.

Polunin is a fascinating subject, and the film benefits from his openness and honesty. He discusses his struggles with depression and anxiety, as well as the challenges of being a male ballet dancer in a field dominated by women. He also reflects on the impact of social media on his career, particularly the viral video of him dancing to Hozier's "Take Me to Church" which brought him international attention.

The film is beautifully shot, with stunning footage of Polunin dancing in a variety of settings, from abandoned buildings to forests. The film's title is a nod to Polunin's desire to break free from the constraints of traditional ballet, and the film showcases his experimental side, as he incorporates elements of contemporary dance and fashion into his performances.

Interspersed with Polunin's story are interviews with his friends, family, and collaborators, including his mother, who reflects on the sacrifices she made to support his career. The film also includes commentary from well-known figures in the dance world, such as the Royal Ballet's former principal dancer Tamara Rojo and Polunin's mentor, Igor Zelensky.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its soundtrack, which features a mix of classical music and contemporary pop songs. This reflects Polunin's desire to bridge the gap between high and low culture, and showcases his eclectic tastes.

Overall, Sergei: Unplugged Cinema is an engaging and moving portrait of a remarkable artist. It offers a rare glimpse into the world of ballet, and highlights the struggles and triumphs of one of its most talented and enigmatic figures. Fans of dance, art, and human drama will undoubtedly find much to appreciate in this captivating film.

Sergei: Unplugged Cinema by Shailendra Singh is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 53 minutes.