Coming Soon

Only When I Dance

Directed by Beadie Finzi
Film Movement
2009
78 Minutes
Brazil, United Kingdom
Portuguese, English
Documentary, Coming of Age, Latin American, Black Cinema
Not Rated
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This feel-good documentary follows Irlan and Isabela, two teenagers from the violent favelas of Rio de Janeiro, as they pursue their dreams of becoming professional ballet dancers. This inspiring story takes us from Rio - where their communities must raise the funds to support their ambitions - to exhilarating ballet competitions in New York and Switzerland. It's a film about their determination to dance, and the price one must pay for talent, ambition and success.

Director & Cast

  • Director: Beadie Finzi
  • Starring: Irlan Silva
  • Starring: Isabela Coracy

Where to Watch

Amazon

Trailer

Photos

Reviews

  • "A real life Billy Elliot!"
    Jane Rosenthal, Tribeca Film Festival
  • "An unforgettable experience!"
    Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian
  • "Finzi's lovingly filmed movie draws viewers into the lives of its two young heroes. You don't have to be a ballet buff to be moved by Isabela's and Irlan's stories."
    V.A. Musetto, New York Post
  • "This inspiring, involving documentary traces the stories of two dancers from the favelas of Rio de Janiero in a disarmingly simple way"
    Rich Cline, Shadows on the Wall
  • "A wonderful documentary about two young talented black ballet dancers from working-class families and the yearning that propels them."
    Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat, Spirituality & Practice
Official Competition
Tribeca Film Festival
Official Selection
Int'l Documentary Film Festival of Amsterdam
Official Selection
Edinburgh Int'l Film Festival
Official Selection
SilverDocs Film Festival
Official Selection
Palm Springs Int'l Film Festival
Official Selection
Rio de Janeiro Int'l Film Festival
Official Selection
Vancouver Int'l Film Festival
Official Selection
Warsaw Int'l Film Festival
Official Selection
San Francisco Doc Fest