Watch A Time for Dancing

A Time for Dancing is a 2002 drama film directed by Peter Gilbert and starring Larisa Oleynik, Shiri Appleby, and Peter Coyote. The plot revolves around two teenage girls, Juliana and Samantha, who share a passion for dancing. They have been best friends since childhood and have always dreamed of becoming professional dancers. However, their dreams are shattered when Juliana is diagnosed with cancer.

The film is an adaptation of a novel of the same name by Davida Wills Hurwin. It explores themes of friendship, love, hope, and loss in a poignant and affecting manner. The story is told through the eyes of Samantha, who narrates most of the film.

The film begins with Samantha and Juliana auditioning for a dance company. They perform a beautiful duet, and it is clear that they have a deep connection and understanding of each other’s movements. The audition is successful, and they are offered a contract with the company. However, their happiness is short-lived when Juliana collapses during a dance rehearsal and is taken to the hospital. She is diagnosed with cancer and given a poor prognosis.

The rest of the movie follows the ups and downs of Juliana’s battle with cancer and its impact on her relationship with Samantha. Samantha also struggles to cope with the thought of losing her best friend and her own feelings of guilt and helplessness. She finds solace in dancing and in her budding romance with a boy named Scott.

Throughout the film, we see Juliana undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments, losing her hair, and becoming weaker and more frail. However, she does not lose her spirit or her love of dance. She continues to dance whenever she can, even if it is just in her hospital room, and she encourages Samantha to keep dancing as well.

The film also touches on the impact of Juliana’s illness on her family, particularly her mother and her younger sister. Juliana’s mother is consumed with worry and anxiety, and her sister feels neglected and left out. However, they all rally around Juliana and find ways to support her through her illness.

The film is beautifully shot, with many scenes taking place in dance studios or on stage. The dance sequences are particularly stunning, showcasing the talent and grace of the two lead actresses. The film also features a moving and uplifting soundtrack, with songs by artists such as Switchfoot, 3 Doors Down, and The Calling.

Overall, A Time for Dancing is a touching and heartfelt film that explores difficult themes with sensitivity and compassion. It is a celebration of friendship, love, and the healing power of art. The performances by Larisa Oleynik and Shiri Appleby are outstanding, and they are supported by a strong cast that includes Peter Coyote as Juliana’s wise and compassionate doctor. The film will leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it, and it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.