Watch Pina

Pina is a mesmerizing documentary film from 2011 that is directed by the renowned German director Wim Wenders. The film is a tribute to the genius of the legendary choreographer and dancer Pina Bausch and showcases her groundbreaking work in a unique and mesmerizing way. The film features stunning dance performances from the Tanztheater Wuppertal, the dance company that Pina Bausch founded in 1973, and is shot in 3D to enhance the visual impact of the performances.

The film opens with a stunning performance by the Tanztheater Wuppertal dancers, who are dressed in a variety of costumes and moving in unison to the beat of the music. The camera follows them through the streets of Wuppertal, Germany, and the performers jump and dance on various surfaces, showcasing their incredible athleticism and grace. Throughout the film, Wenders masterfully weaves together archival footage of Pina Bausch herself, interviews with the dancers, and stunning dance performances to create a mesmerizing tribute to the life and work of one of the most innovative choreographers of the 20th century.

One of the most striking elements of the film is the way in which it showcases the diversity of the performances choreographed by Bausch. From the quirky and humorous "Café Müller" to the haunting and evocative "Rite of Spring," the film showcases some of Bausch's most iconic works while never falling into the trap of becoming repetitive or predictable. Each performance is unique, and the energy and passion of the dancers as they move across the stage is palpable.

The film also showcases the range of emotions and themes that Bausch explored in her work. From the playful and whimsical to the deeply introspective and melancholic, the performances featured in the film are a reflection of the complexity of emotional experience. Wenders is careful to give each performance the space and time it deserves, allowing the viewer to fully engage with the work and appreciate its many layers.

In addition to showcasing the brilliance of Bausch's choreography, the film also provides a glimpse into the lives and personalities of the dancers in the Tanztheater Wuppertal. Interviews with dancers like Regina Advento and Malou Airaudo give insight into the creative process behind the performances, and the challenges and joys of working with Bausch. The dancers are shown as complex and nuanced individuals, each bringing their own unique energy and talent to the stage.

The use of 3D technology in the film is also worth mentioning. While 3D has been used in many films as little more than a gimmick, in Pina it is used to great effect. The added depth and dimensionality of the 3D visuals enhance the immersive quality of the performances. The viewer feels almost as though they are sitting in the front row of the theater, experiencing the performances firsthand.

Overall, Pina is an incredible film that pays tribute to one of the greatest choreographers of the modern era. It showcases the range and depth of Bausch's work while providing a glimpse into the lives and personalities of the dancers who brought her vision to life. The film is visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and a true testament to the power of dance as an art form. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in modern dance or filmmaking.

Pina is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6 and a MetaScore of 83.