Pina

Pina, directed by the German filmmaker Wim Wenders in 2011, is a groundbreaking cinematic exploration of the world of contemporary dance, which embarks upon an immersive journey into the heart of the works of Pina Bausch, the highly esteemed German choreographer. A powerful cinematic experience, Pina is both a mesmerizing tribute to the seminal contribution of Bausch in the world of modern dance and a comprehensive display of Wenders' magnificent directorial prowess in converging the realms of performing arts and moviemaking.

Utilizing breathtaking imagery and innovative cinematic techniques, the film transcends the traditional barriers of documenting stage performances and enhances audience's engagement by placing them in the thick of a creative maelstrom. The film brings to light the stark aesthetic beauty and emotional depth of Bausch's works, through brilliant performances by her dedicated troupe of dancers.

Just as the dancer Pina Bausch redefined the language of dance, Wim Wenders' Pina pushes the boundaries of traditional filmmaking. The cast includes Bausch herself, along with Regina Advento, Malou Airaudo, and a repertoire of seasoned dancers, who together bring a captivating ensemble performance.

Wenders had long been friends with Pina Bausch, whose work he profoundly admired. With Pina, Wenders presents a stunningly visualized and meticulously constructed profile of an artist who revolutionized the art form. Re-envisioning dance and movement, Bausch’s choreographic brilliance is exemplified in performances, painstakingly captured by Wenders' lens, of her celebrated pieces like "Café Muller," "The Rite of Spring," and "Kontakthof."

The film carries unique and intense emotional depth, with each movement performed by the dancers, portraying an array of emotions - joy, sorrow, passion and grief, revealing Bausch’s exceptional ability to identify and convey sincere human feelings through dance.

The film’s narrative is interspersed with honest and heartfelt interviews with Bausch’s dancers sharing their intricate and personal relationships with her. Moments of onstage magic are coupled with the penetrating openness of the dancers who speak about Bausch’s creative process and the influence she had on them, offering a profound look into her extraordinary career.

Moreover, there are depictions of beautifully choreographed dances shot in various urban and natural landscapes, away from the stage - an ingenious decision by Wenders to take dance beyond the confines of a theater. This concept highlights the transformative power of dance, unifying it with the pulsating rhythm of life in a way that is visually moving and emotionally stirring.

Pina’s uniqueness also lies in its use of 3D technique. The additional dimension brings forward a distinctive viewing experience, showing dance in a completely new light. Wenders employs 3D technology not as a gimmick but as a powerful tool to kindle a compelling spatial relationship between the dancer, their movements, and the viewing audience. Both the onstage and offstage settings are thus sensually intensified, rendering a surreal visual poetry.

Pina does not follow a traditional biographical structure. Rather than mapping out the specific details of Bausch’s life, the film chooses to underscore her vast artistic legacy through a montage of thoughtful retrospectives, mesmerizing performances, and somber marks of her absence.

Indeed, Pina Bausch’s presence looms large within the film even though she is not physically present for the most part of it. Having died unexpectedly just as filming began, the remaining parts of the movie serve as a poignant tribute to her artistic genius and lasting legacy.

Contemporary dance, a genre often perceived as difficult to comprehend, is deftly demystified in Pina. Wim Wenders manages to present the works of Pina Bausch, as something deeply visceral and palpably emotive, accessible not just to dance enthusiasts, but to anyone open to experiencing the unspoken language of movement, rhythm and emotions.

In a nutshell, “Pina” is a captivating exploration into the life and spirit of an artist whose work transgressed the conventional boundaries and norms. It is an essential viewing experience for anyone interested in dance, performing arts, or even just the profound depths of human expressivity. The film serves as an impeccable chronicle of Bausch’s enormous contributions to the world of dance, cementing her legacy and reaffirming the enduring power of her work.