Snake Dancer

Snake Dancer, directed by Dirk de Villiers, is an integral piece of South African cinema that gracefully merges social commentary with enticing drama. This 1976 movie transports the audience through time back to South Africa's pre-democratic era and intricately presents the cultural and social dynamics of the time through the life of its protagonist, Glenda Kemp, played by herself.

The film delves into the life of Glenda Kemp, a snake dancer by profession. From her earliest beginnings, we see Glenda's love of dance as an art form and her eventual connection with snakes. Stories of her personal journey are seamlessly interwoven with her professional evolution, making this film equal parts autobiographical drama and a non-traditional dance documentary. Her journey is a bold representation of personal liberty and defiance.

Peter J. Elliott portrays a lawyer who, succumbing to this enigmatic snake charmer's allure in a chance meeting, slides into a complex relationship marked by attraction, apprehension and the clash of societal norms. Elliott's portrayal of the character is understated yet impactful, portraying both the infatuation and the struggle in his relationship with Glenda, opening a window into the challenging aspects of their connection.

Wilson Dunster, who plays a significant role in the film, further adds depth to the narrative. His character represents the societal moral police that sought to maintain the so-called social order and decorum in a time characterised by strict conservatism.

Snake Dancer masterfully challenges the audience's perception of societal norms, morality and freedom. It explores the push and pull between orthodoxy and liberation, especially in its representation of the complexities of Glenda's life as a snake dancer. As one delves into Glenda's world of dance and sensuality, the film confronts the audience with the conflicts between individual freedom and societal constraints.

The choice of snakes as the focus point in Kemp's dance is loaded with symbolism. The coiling and uncoiling of the serpents, coupled with Kemp's sensual dancing, leave each viewer simultaneously awe-struck and intrigued. The snakes not only provide a unique and visually captivating angle to her performances but also subtly symbolise her defiance against conformity, tradition, and suppression.

The film's setting in Johannesburg offers an authentic backdrop depicting the South African society of the 1970s. From its scenic views to its urban landscapes, the film perfectly captures the vibe of the time. Glenda Kemp's journey with her snakes in this milieu provides viewers an enriching cinematic experience.

The craft of cinematography in Snake Dancer takes us on a trip down the memory lane – to an era when South Africa was dealing with political turbulence, and many forms of expression were suppressed. The camera work accentuates the mesmerising beauty of Kemp's performances, tracing every swirl of her form and the serpentine movements of her partner in dance.

The narrative is complemented by a compelling musical score that adds depth and richness to each scene. Sound design plays a pivotal role in fusing the emotion with the experiences of the characters, enhancing the overall storytelling aspect of the film.

What stands out about Snake Dancer is the daring and provocative theme it explores, making it an intriguing commentary on societal judgment and the expression of individual freedom amid repressive societal norms. A dance film at its core, it uses the art of dance to present a unique perspective on the tension between personal liberation and societal taboos.

In conclusion, Snake Dancer is a captivating exploration of a woman's journey into the heart of many social storms, holding on to her passion, the very essence of her being. An almost biographical narrative coupled with Glenda Kemp's stellar performance, the movie opens viewers' minds to the intricate and bold world of a woman and her snakes dancing in defiance of societal norms. It's a fascinating chapter in the annals of South African cinema, shedding light on a unique aspect of its cultural history.