Nijinsky

Nijinsky is a compelling 1980 biographical drama based on the life of Vaslav Nijinsky, a famous figure in the world of dance, who is known as one of the most gifted male ballet dancers in the history of the art form. Directed by Herbert Ross. This British film provides a deep exploration into Nijinsky’s life, professional career, relationships, and state of mind, as well as a tragic descent into madness, focusing on his time at Sergei Diaghilev's Ballets Russes.

The film features an international cast, headlined by renowned British actor Alan Bates as the influential impresario Sergei Diaghilev, American actor George De La Pena as Vaslav Nijinsky, and Leslie Browne, another distinguished principal dancer, as Romola, Nijinsky’s wife. Bates gives a powerful performance as the imperious Diaghilev, the master manipulator and benefactor of the Ballet Russes, while De La Pena and Browne both bringing a sense of vulnerability and authenticity to their roles.

Nijinsky begins by spotlighting Vaslav's Polish origins and childhood, where his love for dance commenced. It then fast-forwards to Paris in 1909, where his talent is recognized by none other than Sergei Diaghilev. Dazzled by Nijinsky’s remarkable talent, Diaghilev takes him under his wing, transforming him into a ballet superstar. The film beautifully captures their complicated relationship, with Diaghilev serving as mentor, patron, and lover to Nijinsky.

The dance sequences in the movie are a spectacle beyond compare. Choreographed by Sir Kenneth MacMillan, one of the leading figures in twentieth-century British ballet, the dances stand as one of the significant features of the film. Be it the solo sequences the portray the genius of Nijinsky or the ensemble pieces that showcase the grandeur of Ballet Russes, these sequences lend themselves as proof of the artistic brilliance that was characteristic of the ballet company and of Nijinsky himself.

This movie presents an in-depth look into how Nijinsky changed the course of ballet. His radical approach to dance, which left many of his contemporaries baffled, is presented with sensitivity and respect. Through Nijinsky's depiction, the movie readily acknowledges how such a level of genius is often misunderstood and unrewarded by society. Nijinsky’s life, thus, veers from fame and fortune towards a much heartbreaking trajectory.

The film is more dramatic than a purely biographical exposition and provides a deep insight into Nijinsky’s emotional journey. His complex, and ultimately destructive, love affair with Diaghilev and his subsequent marriage to Romola is portrayed with sensitivity. The film does not shy away from portraying the power dynamics and emotional upheaval that marked these relationships.

Adding to the dramatic narrative, the film also deftly handles Nijinsky's tragic descent into madness, culminating in his premature retirement from professional ballet at the tender age of 29. Despite their relationship's strained ending, Diaghilev is shown trying to seek help for Nijinsky, fearing that his genius is being driven to madness.

The film highlights the high price often associated with prodigious talent: Nijinsky is torn between his love for dance, his mentors, and his quest for an ordinary life, all while grappling with his mental health.

Visually, the film is a treat to the senses, with amazing ballet routines, stunning costumes, and opulent sets that transport viewers to the elegant world of Ballet Russes and early 20th century Europe. Besides, the film’s music is another high point, merging seamlessly with the dance sequences to create a truly mesmerizing experience for the viewers.

Nijinsky is also richly educational, shedding light on an era in dance history that paved the way for modern ballet. Ross makes use of a notable cast and crew's talents, creating a movie that managed to incorporate real-life ballet professionals and actors equitably.

In sum, Nijinsky, as a biographical drama, offers a heartrending glance at the life of an extraordinarily talented ballet dancer, whose brilliance was only matched by his tragic end. More than a dance film, it is a study of life in the throes of fame, genius, love, and despair. While it is a must-watch for those with a penchant for dance and ballet, its human drama and historical context ensure that it appeals to a much wider audience.