Watch Bolshoi Babylon

Bolshoi Babylon is a 2015 documentary film directed by Nick Read and Mark Franchetti. The movie delves into the world of the prestigious Bolshoi Ballet and its intricate web of behind-the-scenes politics, scandals and drama that unfolded in the aftermath of the horrific acid attack on the company's artistic director, Sergei Filin. The film highlights the incredible talent of the Bolshoi Ballet dancers and the blood, sweat and tears it takes to achieve greatness in the world of classical dance. It is a captivating look into the passion, dedication and hard work required to make it in one of the world's most celebrated ballet companies.

The documentary chronicles the 2013 acid attack that left Filin severely injured and disfigured, and the subsequent trial of Bolshoi soloist Pavel Dmitrichenko for his alleged involvement in the attack. The attack rocked the Bolshoi Ballet and the world at large, as the company has long been a symbol of Russia's artistic and cultural achievements.

The movie features interviews with current and former Bolshoi dancers, directors, choreographers and administrators, who share their insights on the challenges and controversies surrounding the world-famous ballet company. They offer candid and revealing observations on the fierce competition, jealously and intrigue that are part and parcel of the Bolshoi's intense working environment.

As the film unfolds, the viewer is taken on a journey through the Bolshoi's history and given a glimpse into the daily routine of the dancers and administrators who work tirelessly behind the scenes to create the magic that audiences witness on stage. We see the dancers as they rehearse, struggle and strive for perfection, constantly pushed to their physical and emotional limits in pursuit of artistic excellence.

In addition to shedding light on the Bolshoi's insular world, Bolshoi Babylon also examines the political and societal pressures that come with being part of Russia's national cultural heritage. The documentary explores the ties between the Bolshoi, the Kremlin and Russia's power structure, and how those connections have played out in the Bolshoi's development and growth.

Throughout the film, the viewer is treated to stunning footage of the Bolshoi's performances, from classic ballets such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker to more contemporary works that push the boundaries of what is possible in ballet. This footage is interspersed with candid interviews and dramatic reenactments of key moments in the Bolshoi's recent history, creating a truly immersive and engaging viewing experience.

Overall, Bolshoi Babylon is a fascinating and thought-provoking documentary that offers a unique and intimate look into the world of one of the world's most renowned ballet companies. With its compelling storyline, stunning visuals and engaging cast of characters, it is a must-see for anyone interested in the arts, politics, and human drama.

Bolshoi Babylon is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 61.