Watch You Don't Need Feet to Dance

You Don't Need Feet to Dance is a 2013 documentary film directed by Alan Govenar that tells the inspirational story of Sidiki Conde, a man who lost the use of his legs at a young age but refused to let it stand in the way of his dreams. Born in Guinea, West Africa, Sidiki was just 14 years old when he was struck by a disease that caused him to lose the use of his legs. But instead of giving up, he turned to music and found a passion for playing the djembe, a traditional West African drum.

The film follows Sidiki as he travels to New York City to pursue his dream of becoming a professional musician and dancer, an incredibly challenging feat for someone who relies on a wheelchair to get around.

Despite facing numerous obstacles, Sidiki remains determined to break down barriers through his art. He forms his own performance company – The Sidiki Conde Dance Company – and begins incorporating his wheelchair into his dances, creating a genuinely unique and remarkable style that defies expectations.

Throughout the film, we see Sidiki’s passion and love for his craft, as well as his incredible strength and resilience in the face of adversity. We also meet his friends and family members, who support him throughout his journey and offer insight into his character and motivations.

You Don't Need Feet to Dance is a truly heartwarming film that reminds us all that there are no limits to what we can achieve if we set our minds to it. It's a story of perseverance, hope, and the power of the human spirit that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

Director Alan Govenar does an excellent job of capturing Sidiki's story on film, using a combination of interviews, performance footage, and archival material to build a compelling narrative. The film is beautifully shot, with vivid colors and stunning visuals that bring Sidiki's performances to life.

One of the standout features of the film is the soundtrack, which features a blend of traditional West African music and contemporary jazz. Sidiki's own compositions also feature prominently, and they provide a poignant and emotional backdrop to his story.

In addition to exploring Sidiki's personal journey, the film also touches on broader themes of disability, culture, and identity. We see how Sidiki's disability is inextricably tied to his cultural identity and his art, and how he uses his performances to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about disability.

Overall, You Don't Need Feet to Dance is a moving and inspiring film that showcases the remarkable talent and determination of Sidiki Conde. It's a testament to the power of the human spirit and a reminder that anything is possible if we believe in ourselves.

For anyone looking for a film that will leave them feeling inspired and uplifted, You Don't Need Feet to Dance is definitely worth a watch.