I won't even pretend to know a thing about dancing - especially that of ballet. It was just never my thing. I approached Bess Kargman's festival winner First Position with some major hesitation, seeing as how it is a documentary that follows six youth dancers as they strive to earn awards and scholarships at the Young America Grand Prix. Luckily Kargman crafts a film that showcases the athlete, not necessarily the sport, making First Position an enjoyable experience for anyone who has ever longed to live out their grandest dream.
Compiled of footage taken from around the world, First Position is a film that features six entirely different characters who all have an intriguing story that has gotten them to where they are today. From adoption and war to a cross country move and long daily commutes, nothing stands between these students and the thing they love most: dancing.
And while the film is targeted to those who appreciate the art of dance, there is a message here for everyone. These kids are giving up their adolescence to battle through injury, bloody toes, and time away from their family in order to achieve the one thing they feel they were put on here to do. Watching them strive and give their heart and soul for the mere opportunity is a lesson we can all take away - regardless of the dream.
