Watch The Company

The Company is a 2003 drama film that revolves around a group of professional ballet dancers in a Chicago-based dance company. The movie is directed by Robert Altman, and the screenplay is co-written by Barbara Turner and Neve Campbell. The cast includes Neve Campbell as Loretta "Ry" Ryan, a talented ballet dancer and the lead character, James Franco as Josh, the company's star choreographer, and Malcolm McDowell as Alberto Antonelli, the company director. The movie portrays the daily struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices of the dancers in the competitive world of professional ballet. The story follows Ry, a gifted dancer who is torn between her passion for dancing and her desire for a normal life. She is constantly struggling to balance her personal life with her demanding career in the dance company. The Company is not a typical narrative film, instead it's a slice of life perspective on the dance world. Rather than a classic plot driven story, the focus of the film is the year-long journey of a ballet company. It's a surprisingly honest and authentic look into the lives of real dancers, without the Hollywood varnish often seen in dance movies. The movie features visually stunning dance sequences, along with a behind-the-scenes look into the world of ballet. Director Robert Altman captures the essence of the dance world with his trademark style of overlapping dialogue and extended tracking shots. One of the film's most notable features is the use of handheld cameras that create a documentary-like feel, which provides an intimate look at the dancers' lives. The character of Ry is the heart of the movie, and Neve Campbell delivers one of her finest performances. Her portrayal of Ry is genuine and heartfelt, and she showcases her remarkable dancing skills in the movie's compelling dance sequences. James Franco's character, Josh, is equally compelling, portraying a talented yet self-absorbed choreographer whose work is at odds with the company’s traditionalist director. Malcolm McDowell brings a powerful presence as Alberto Antonelli, the company director who is fiercely protective of his dancers despite his often abrasive demeanor. His character serves as a mentor figure to Ry and is instrumental in her growth as a dancer. The movie also features a strong supporting cast, including Barbara E. Robertson, who plays Harriet, one of the veteran dancers, and Susie Cusack, who plays Terry, the company's costume designer. Both actors deliver nuanced performances that add to the film's authenticity. The Company is a unique and memorable film that offers a rare glimpse into the world of professional ballet. It is a beautifully shot film with excellent performances by its cast, superb choreography, and an exceptional soundtrack composed by Van Dyke Parks. The movie is a must-see for anyone interested in dance or even just great storytelling. In conclusion, The Company is an artful meditation on the sacrifices of being a professional dancer. It's a beautifully crafted film that captures both the beauty and the pain of the dance world. The movie is an excellent example of Altman's genius and one of Neve Campbell's standout performances. It's a timeless piece of cinema worth revisiting for anyone who loves immersive storytelling.