HORIZONS (Horizontes) (2015) - ♦♦♦

Directed by - Eileen Hofer

"A glimpse in the lives of three generations of Cuban female ballet dancers, inevitably revolving around the central figure of classic ballet legend ALICIA ALONSO, who founded the National Ballet of Cuba, for which VIENGSAY VALDES dances and which young AMANDA DE JESUS PEREZ DUARTE also aspires to one day join. 

Despite the examination by EILEEN HOFER of each of the three's individual goals, lives and cultural backgrounds, it is indeed ALICIA ALONSO's story that remains fascinatingly interesting, due to her history of affiliation with CASTRO's ruling but also due to her amazing talent that was celebrated all over the world. Seeing the way things are today, and the way she maintains her status as a revered figure in Cuba is incredibly interesting. 

HOFER's HORIZONS is equally interested in its other two subjects, but more than that, they seem to represent the dedication and committment of the art of ballet, the blood, sweat and tears that it takes to making it. This aspect will surely interest even those that do not nurture a particular love for the art of ballet, and is also paid tribute to through inspired and beautiful cinematography, perhaps sometimes excessively stylised, causing some confused moments that make the overall documentary seem lacking cohesion, but still full of warmth and respect."

Documentary, Switzerland/Cuba