Nijinsky

A dance of genius, passion, and tragic madness.

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Synopsis

Nijinsky, directed by Herbert Ross and released in 1980, is a biographical drama that delves into the life of Vaslav Nijinsky, one of the greatest ballet dancers of the early 20th century. The film stars Alan Bates as Nijinsky, showcasing his extraordinary talent and tumultuous life, marked by a struggle between artistic genius and personal demons. Set against the vivid backdrop of the cult of celebrity in the world of ballet, along with the influence of impresario Diaghilev and Nijinsky's turbulent love affair with Tamara Toumanova, the film captures the essence of his artistry as well as his descent into madness. Through powerful performances and evocative choreography, Nijinsky highlights the delicate balance between fame and personal anguish, offering a compelling glimpse into the world of performing arts at a turning point in history. The film’s stunning visual storytelling and poignant exploration of the psyche of a gifted artist make it a captivating watch for those interested in ballet and the performing arts.

Cast

Reviews

Upon its release, Nijinsky received a mixed bag of reviews, reflecting both its artistic ambitions and its execution. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a rating of 50%, illustrating a division among critics. The New York Times described the film as a 'fascinating portrait of a complex man whose genius was matched only by his tragedy,' while noting that it sometimes veers into melodrama. Conversely, Variety remarked, 'While Bates delivers a stunning performance, the film struggles with its pacing and narrative coherence,' ultimately leading to a polarizing viewer experience. Audiences on IMDb rated the film a 6.6/10, with some praising Bates’ portrayal of Nijinsky as 'hauntingly captivating,' yet others felt that the film failed to fully realize its potential. Metacritic reflects this sentiment, with a mixed review score, and some reviews caution that while it captures the beauty of ballet, it can often feel disjointed and sluggish. Despite the criticisms, Nijinsky remains a significant exploration of the life of an artistic icon, making it worth a watch for ballet enthusiasts and those interested in complex character studies.