Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake

Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake is a sensational and unique adaptation of the classic ballet Swan Lake. This version, hailed as a masterpiece of modern dance, was initially created by Matthew Bourne in 1995 and was enthusiastically revived in 2019 with an outstanding new cast starring William Bozier, Nicola Kabera, and Liam Mower.

The film is a recording of a performance at Sadler's Wells Theatre in London, thus capturing the raw and powerful essence of the live performance in the intimate environment of cinema. This modern interpretation of the traditional ballet offers a swirling, emotional storm visible in the influential and expressive performances of some of today's front running contemporary dancers.

William Bozier's striking performance as The Swan is unforgettable. Bozier in his role as The Swan is fierce and potent, capturing the audience with his dynamic movements and mesmerizing energy. His portrayal skillfully communicates the romantic, destructive character of the creature, combining both elegance and raw power. There is something dangerously captivating about the combination of grace and aggressiveness Bozier manages to convey.

Nicola Kabera, in her role as The Queen, also delivers an exceptional performance, portraying the icy and detached mother figure. Kabera exudes a regal presence that perfectly encapsulates her character. Her performance is a masterclass in the power of nuanced expression and physicality.

Then, there's Liam Mower as The Prince, who successfully captures the pent-up frustration and longing of his character. Mower presents an emotionally charged portrayal of his character's descent into despair and his emotional journey throughout. His exceptional ability as a dancer is unmistakably showcased here, moving with such emotional fluidity and technical proficiency that his every movement tells a story unto itself.

The plot of Swan Lake is intricately interwoven with strong psychological overtones. It revolves around a young prince and his struggle with oppressive royal responsibilities, his mother's cold indifference, and his deep longing for freedom. His dreams and reality begin to blur after his encounter with a magnificent swan. Let's not forget the visually stunning and psychologically impactful 'Swan scene' that features male swan figures instead of the conventional female ensemble, making it a profound, compelling image that you'll find etched in your mind long after the performance concludes.

The choice to cast men as the swans was a stroke of genius by Bourne, adding a new level of intensity and enhancing the psychologically charged atmosphere. This daring change made this version of “Swan Lake” a sensation when it premiered in 1995. It challenges the traditional aesthetics of ballet and provides a profound commentary on the constraints of gender and society.

The set design and costume work add another layer to the performance, with grand backdrops and exquisite costume work that complements and amplifies the story's emotional depth. Lez Brotherston's design for the set and costumes are visually striking and contribute heavily to the performance's overall feel. The sumptuous set pieces capture both the opulence and the sterility of royalty, while the costumes range from the meticulously detailed royal gowns to the stark, feathered swan bodies.

The cinematic direction maintained the intensity of a live performance while offering viewers the added benefits of close-ups and ideal viewing angles. This ensures that each emotional nuance, every expressive movement, was captured and could be appreciated to its fullest.

Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake does not merely try to rehash an old classic. Instead, it boldly reinvents it, infusing it with fresh energy, depth, and emotion. By pushing boundaries and redefining standards, it proves that it is truly a masterpiece of contemporary dance. It's not just a ballet; it's a story of rebellion, freedom, and identity, told through the medium of dance, leaving audiences moved, thrilled, and captivated. It’s a definite must-watch for ballet aficionados and a highly recommended film for those new to the ballet world, prepared to be fascinated by its unique portrayal and powerhouse performances.