Nik and Murray: The Dances of Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis

Nik and Murray: The Dances of Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis is a unique film, considered a gem filled with history, intuition, and sheer genius in the realm of modern dance. Released in 1986, this documentary-style movie does an exceptional job at capturing the distinctive artistic voices of both Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis, two towering figures in the American modern dance scene from the mid-twentieth century.

The film showcases Alwin Nikolais's remarkable use of light, motion, and imaginative props paired meticulously with Murray Louis’s radiantly physical dance style. Murray Louis, not just co-star but also the dramaturgical soul behind the project, takes viewers into the intimate relationship of his creative collaboration with Alwin Nikolais. This 1986 feature is a dance history enthusiast's dream come true, providing an insightful and immersive retrospective on the work of these two master choreographers and the shared artistic legacy they crafted.

Murray Louis, an accomplished dancer and choreographer, grants us a glance into his collaborative journey with Nikolais, who is remembered as a pioneer, innovator and a profound influencer in the world of dance, theater, and multimedia performance. Nikolais's masterful skill in transcending the human form and transforming it into abstract expression is vividly communicated through the sequences.

One of the definitive features of Nik and Murray: The Dances of Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis is the exploration of different dance pieces choreographed by both Nikolais and Louis, straining normal conceptions of dance and embracing a fresh, avant-garde attitude towards this artform. The film demonstrates selected works from their repertoires, which serve as valuable archival records of their artistic calibre and vision.

The cinematography and production of the movie deserve a special mention, as well. The film was crafted in such a way that dance becomes accessible even for those who are not seasoned spectators of the art form. Close-ups and the clever use of camera add dynamism into the captured performances, providing different perspectives and angles, enhancing the viewers' appreciation and understanding of the intricacies behind each choreographed piece.

Despite the abstraction of Nikolais' work and the physical rigor in Louis's choreography, the film maintains an inviting and approachable quality, revealing the human qualities and emotions behind each dance. This unique blend of artistry, creativity, and humanity creates an inspired viewing experience, captivating for anyone with a discerning eye for art, creativity, and dance.

Not only is this film a treat for enthusiasts of modern dance but it also serves an educational purpose, offering invaluable insights into the workings of two significant choreographers. It provides context for the development of modern dance as a whole.

Nik and Murray: The Dances of Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis is a timeless testament to the avant-garde world of Alwin Nikolais and Murray Louis. It is an intimate journey into their imaginative world, making viewers privy to the process of their creations. The film not only presents the choreographic masterpieces of these significant dance personalities but also celebrates their creative spirit, underscoring their immense contributions to the evolution of contemporary dance.