And Then We Danced, directed by Levan Akin, tells the story of Merab (Levan Gelbakhiani), a passionate dancer hailing from Georgia whose dream is to join the National Georgian Ensemble. Merab is a motivated and dedicated dancer, who constantly practices and strives to improve his craft. Merab has spent years preparing for an audition that can determine his future as a member of the prestigious ensemble. The audition is a pivotal moment in Merab's life, and he has given his all in terms of hard work and dedication.
Merab's life takes an unexpected turn when Irakli (Bachi Valishvili) arrives at the dance academy. Irakli is a charismatic and confident newcomer to the ensemble, and Merab feels threatened by his presence. Despite the initial tension between them, the two begin to train together, and a spark of attraction begins to grow. Merab begins to question his own identity, his culture, and his traditions that he has grown up with. As he falls deeper in love with Irakli, Merab struggles to come to terms with what it would mean for him and his family if they found out.
And Then We Danced is a stunning film about the power of dance, the exploration of one's identity, and the struggle for artistic expression. The director's thoughtful and beautiful cinematography captures the beauty of Georgian dance, while also showcasing the country's stunning landscapes.
The relationship between Merab and Irakli is tender, but complicated. Their chemistry is palpable, and the audience can feel the tension between them throughout the film. The film deals with themes of homophobia and the pressure to conform to traditional gender roles, as well as the struggle to find acceptance within one's community. Despite the serious themes, the movie also balances humor and warmth, creating a genuine connection between the characters and the audience.
The film is anchored by Levan Gelbakhiani's captivating performance as Merab. Gelbakhiani's portrayal is nuanced and sophisticated, and he captures the physicality and grace of Georgian dance with ease. Gelbakhiani powerfully embodies the struggles of Merab's life, conveying his character's complicated desires with depth and sensitivity. Bachi Valishvili, who plays Irakli, is a perfect counterpoint to Gelbakhiani, showcasing his own charisma and charm.
Another compelling aspect of the film is its depiction of Georgian culture. The film delves deep into the traditions and customs of the country, from its traditional dances to its strict gender roles. The movie depicts Georgian society as resistant to change, struggling with its own conservatism, and uncomfortable with the idea of accepting outsiders.
And Then We Danced is a beautifully crafted film that transcends its portrayal of dance to tell a powerful, moving story about self-discovery and identity. It is a sensitive exploration of sexuality, culture, and belonging, and one that will touch audiences deeply. The film is an authentic masterpiece, full of grace, passion, and emotion that will keep audiences captivated from beginning to end.
And Then We Danced is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 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 68.
