Dance Film Analysis

My initial thoughts and impressions upon viewing the film Rize were of amazement at how athletic the dancers were, of shock at the environment they were surrounded by, and of being impressed by their creative use of dance to overcome their environment. Having a dance background, myself, I was fascinated at their strong popping movements and the use of raw energy and immense power. This was not the dance I was taught growing up. Initially, I was struck by the determination shown in the dancers faces; like their bodies, chiseled as smooth stone, into the expressions on their faces. The film cleared up a misconception of mine as well; the misconception that Hip Hop and Rap were the same, or having the same origins. This is not true. Yes, Rap and Hip Hop may have the same urban street vibe, yet are of independent origin and philosophy.
Similar to the characters in the movie, my motivation for dance was to overcome my challenging childhood environment. As my mother states, …show more content…
I have seen similar styles with absolutely no knowledge of the background. At first, it seems off-putting, harsh, angry, and violent. Then, taking a deeper look, you begin to understand the dynamics. I have no experience with the urban lifestyle or of ethnic oppression. Yet, I empathized with the characters and their plight of feeling they had no choices. To be without choices, limited in a way out, this I know firsthand. I commend Tommy the Clown for his outreach to the children. He gave them hope and a way to express feelings without hurting others or themselves; he gave them something worthwhile to belong to, the sum is greater than its parts the saying goes, Tommy the Clown gave those children a gift. He gave them a positive outlet and forward outlook. Tommy was sincere and caring, it was obvious and was contagious. His creative dance form in response to the violence was, and remains,