Customer Reviews

Pina (DVD, Blu-ray, 3D Blu-ray Combo Pack)

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This tribute to the remarkable dancer and choreographer Pina Bausch consists mostly of performances by members of her dance company, Tanztheater Wuppertal. Wim Wenders had been wanting to make a film of Pina's work for 20 years, but according to Wenders, it was not until 3D technology reached the point of development where it could properly represent the "corporality" as well as the movement of the dancers that the film was really worth making (of course it was shot digitally, not literally on film). Unfortunately Pina died suddenly in 2009 while the project was in the planning stages, but the members of her ensemble urged Wenders to go ahead with it anyway.

I haven't yet seen this in 3D, but even on ordinary Blu-ray it's the most fascinating dance film i've seen (and i've seen some good ones). We see parts of some famous pieces by Pina, including the Rite of Spring and the Café Müller (which you'll remember if you've seen Almodovar's "Talk to Her"). There is also some older footage of Pina herself performing, and much of the newly shot parts are solo and pas de deux performances conveying a wide range of emotions; most of these are "danced answers" to questions about Pina which Wenders had put to them verbally, but asked them to answer with their bodies rather than with words. These were shot in a variety of striking locations, which adds to the cinematic effect and enhances the nonverbal communication. All of this is explained in the extensive making-of on the Blu-ray. There are also several deleted scenes, which are worth watching - there is no commentary on them, although Wenders speaks as if there is in the making-of. No matter, this combo box was worth it, especially if i ever get a chance to play the 3D version!

Right on time!
Perfect conditions.
It was a gift and it was perfect.
All went according to plan.
Just excellent.