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Movie Reviews of White NightsMovie Review: Brilliant Baryshnikov! Summary: 5 Stars
White Nights is a truly great film, perhaps in these modern times a little outdated, but nonetheless a true gem!
This film is the story of a Russian defector who, by a mishap, arrives back in Russia, where he befriends an American deserter. These characters are portrayed by ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov and Gregory Hines, tap dancer, respectively.
The plot is slightly predictable but still very enjoyable. Helen Mirren has a small role as Baryshnikov's ex.
The acting is very good all around, the main surprise being Baryshnikov, who, after lacklustre acting in The Turning Point, puts in a show-stopping performance.
The soundtrack to this film is very good indeed and the Russian scenery is just sublime.
But ultimately it is the dancing that makes this a wonderful film - a feast for the eyes.
The dancing is nothing short of spectacular! The duets between the 2 dancers are amazing. However, it is the legendary Barishnikov who makes the film deserving of its cult status - his staggeringly, stunning dancing to a Russian song in the Kirov ballet theatre is breath-taking and heart-breaking, it is truly worth purchasing th film for that 1 sequence alone!!!!
Movie Review: Best Dance Movie I've Seen Summary: 5 Stars
I agree with other reviewers that this film is underrated. First of all, the acting is very good. Quite frankly, the pairing of Mikhail Baryshnikov, Greggory Hines and Isabella Rosselini is reason enough to see this film. Not that I'd recommend it to everybody. Sure, it feels kind of dated with the 80's music. And like every single dance movie I've ever seen, it's a little difficult to take it seriously when the characters suddenly stop their dialogue and dance because the screenplay says "insert stunning dance sequence here". Yet, unlike those other dance films, this one does not rely on filler about backstage bickering, romance and coming-of-age. This film successfully takes the dance movie genre in a whole new direction by setting it in Russia during the Cold War. Suddenly the plot is no longer filler that justifies the dancing, but actually raises some interesting questions when Nikolai's idealistic view of American freedom clashes with Randolph's pessimistic view. If you're a fan of Baryshnikov, Hines or dance in general, do not hesitate to see this one, because it's really a joy to see them together and the film itself isn't bad either.
Movie Review: You'll feel it in your heart and down to your winged feet or tapping toes! Summary: 5 Stars
It was spectacular when it was released -- even more so now that my tastes have matured and my artistic appreciation has finally been realized. When I viewed it for the first time, I think I loved it for its social black/white, Russia/American message and the fact that races and nationalities can come together for a common purpose. I still love it for that but now, to see these two great dancers together, in their individual forms of dance, takes my breath away. This is truly a great film! The special features are so well done, giving a brief & glorious look at Moscow as it was when Baryshnikov danced there. This film is a fitting & lasting tribute to the talent of America's own Gregory Hines. I am saddened that he was called away from us so soon -- he is missed! "White Nights"is right on top (sharing first with "To Kill a Mocking Bird") of my list of the 800+ movies & documentaries I own. Take my adice -- buy it, cherish it and -- don't lend it to even your best friend. I promise you -- you'll have a difficult time getting it back! Make your friends buy their own -- they'll love you for it!
Movie Review: Don't bother me, I'm in extacy. Summary: 5 Stars
All I ever needed to know was that Mikhail Baryshnikov and Gregory Hines were going to dance together. Turns out that on top of being an inhumanly stunning dancer, Mikhail Baryshnikov is a hell of an actor, too, and kept working in that respect for years after this, even turning up randomly in Sex and the City! Gregory Hines is one of the most talented artists this century has seen, hands down. Put him up against any other triple threat performer we've seen since 1900 and he holds his own or just owns the room.
The plot was a little far fetched sometimes, sure, but my willing suspension of disbelief kicks in and time after time I enjoy myself. I'm proud of the fact that I love this movie. The WHOLE cast is amazing, the choreography and execution of performance is out of this world (capturing two of the BEST *AT* their best!), and the leads have great chemistry. I have a good time and enjoy myself EVERY TIME I watch this movie, and that's all I need!
Movie Review: Fantastic movie :-) Summary: 5 Stars
I remember seeing this at the theatre so many years ago and even as a kid, I knew I loved it. I have always loved dance and so this back then was a main draw for me. But now as an adult, I can really truly appreciate the talent of Mikhail Baryshnikov ('Koyla') and Gregory Hines (Raymond). These guys are/were legends.
As a kid, I didn't understand/care for the political side of the movie (why they wanted to get out of Russia), but I get it now and it makes the story so much more than about dance only. It is such a great film, that while dated now, is still very enjoyable and great to re-watch again and show to younger people as well to see these genius' dance together. I can't wait to throw away my VHS copy and replace it by this long awaited DVD edition.
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