Watch Jiri Kylian: Forgotten Memories

Jiri Kylian: Forgotten Memories is a fascinating documentary film that focuses on the life and work of the famous choreographer, Jiri Kylian. The film, which was directed by Don Kent and Christian Dumais-Lvowski, provides an insightful look into Kylian's life, his artistic journey, and his contributions to the world of dance. The movie opens with a beautiful footage of dancers performing one of Kylian's most famous ballets, Bella Figura. The camera then zooms in on Kylian himself, who talks about his experiences as a young dancer, growing up in Czechoslovakia during the Communist era. He recalls how he fell in love with dance at an early age and how he had to fight against the odds to pursue his passion.

Through a series of interviews, archival footage, and re-enactments, the film takes the viewers on a journey through Kylian's career. We see how he started out as a member of the National Ballet of Prague in the 1960s, where he quickly distinguished himself as a talented and innovative choreographer. The film also delves into his work with the Nederlands Dans Theater in the 1970s, where he went on to create some of his most iconic pieces, including Sinfonietta, Symphony of Psalms, and Sweet Dreams.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of Kylian's artistic process. The documentary features interviews with some of Kylian's collaborators and former dancers, who provide insights into how he approached choreography and how his unique style evolved over time. Through these interviews, we learn about Kylian's interest in exploring the human condition and how he used dance to express complex emotions and ideas.

The film also provides a glimpse into Kylian's personal life, including his relationship with his wife, Sabine, who is also a dancer and a collaborator. We see how the couple worked together on several projects, including the acclaimed production, Forgotten Land. Through their partnership, we gain a deeper understanding of Kylian's work and his creative process.

Another fascinating aspect of the film is its examination of the impact that Kylian's work has had on the world of dance. The documentary includes interviews with several prominent dancers and choreographers, including Nacho Duato and William Forsythe, who discuss Kylian's influence on contemporary dance and his enduring legacy.

Overall, Jiri Kylian: Forgotten Memories is a mesmerizing portrait of one of the most important and influential choreographers of the 20th century. The film offers a compelling blend of biography, history, and artistic exploration, providing valuable insights into the life and work of a true visionary. Whether you're a fan of dance or simply interested in creative expression, this documentary is definitely worth checking out.

Jiri Kylian: Forgotten Memories is a documentary with a runtime of 53 minutes.