Dance for Me

NEW DOCS

Adolescence brings its own natural pressures—fitting in and finding confidence—but those forces are compounded when one is exceptionally talented. Fifteen-year-old Russian ballroom dancer Egor leaves his family behind to work in Denmark and live with his new partner, Mie, and her family. Working through language barriers and opposing customs, the young dancers pursue the European Ballroom Championship, where they aspire to international recognition. But unlike ballet, winning a ballroom competition depends on synergy with one’s partner. At home, Mie and Egor develop a sibling-like compatibility, but on the floor their relationship must transform itself into a compelling love affair. If Egor underperforms he will likely be sent home, a consequence that underscores the already tense sequences of preparation and competition. Like the extravagant makeup and grown-up silk and sequins that adorn their small frames, heavy adult expectations cloak the actions of these two young talents—but their conviction may just endure its weight.  ST

Director

Katrine Philp

Producer

Lisa Saxtrup

Editor

Signe Rebekka Kaufmann

Cinematographers

Sophia Olsson, Niels Thastum

Original Title

Dans for mig

Release Year

2012

Festival Year

2013

Country

Denmark

Run Time

79 minutes

Premiere

North American Premiere