IMDb 7.2 2009 HD

La Danse: The Paris Opera Ballet

La Danse: The Paris Opera Ballet

2009
Documentary
159 min NR France
7.6 / 10
7.2 IMDB

A film by Frederick Wiseman following the ins and outs of 7 ballets by the Paris Opera Ballet.

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Frederick Wiseman
Starring
Emilie Cozette / Brigitte Lefèvre / Aurélie Dupont / Dorothée Gilbert / Marie-Agnès Gillot / Agnès Letestu / Delphine Moussin / Kader Belarbi

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

disciplined rigorous artistic demanding observational focused meticulous insightful challenging elegant intense authentic

Reviews

G
Genevieve Croft
May 1, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

Frederick Wiseman delivers a compelling, unadorned look at the Paris Opera Ballet in 'La Danse'. The film’s strength lies in its deep immersion into the creative process, following the company as they prepare seven diverse ballets. We see…

A
Alistair Finch
May 1, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

This documentary is a deep dive into the heart of the Paris Opera Ballet, brought to life by Frederick Wiseman’s patient lens. 'La Danse' eschews sensationalism, opting instead to present the raw, often arduous, process of creating ballet.…

I
Isabelle Dubois
May 1, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

Frederick Wiseman's 'La Danse' is a sprawling, detailed portrait of the Paris Opera Ballet. The film meticulously documents the process behind seven different ballets, offering an intimate view of rehearsals, creative discussions, and the demanding routines of the…

M
Marcus Thorne
May 1, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

For anyone captivated by the art of movement, 'La Danse' offers an unparalleled, unvarnished look at the Paris Opera Ballet. Wiseman’s direction is characteristically unobtrusive, allowing the intense focus and collaborative spirit of the dancers and choreographers to…

E
Eleanor Vance
May 1, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

Frederick Wiseman's 'La Danse: The Paris Opera Ballet' is a masterclass in observational filmmaking. Shunning narration and overt commentary, Wiseman immerses the viewer in the rigorous world of one of the globe's most esteemed dance companies. We witness…

FAQs

The documentary subtly explores this dynamic by showcasing both individual brilliance and the necessity of ensemble cohesion. We see soloists honing their craft and expressing personal artistry, but their efforts are always in service of larger choreographic works. The film highlights how individual dancers must synchronise, respond to each other, and contribute to the unified vision of a ballet. It’s a testament to how personal excellence is amplified and made meaningful within the context of a disciplined, collective artistic endeavour like the Paris Opera Ballet.