directed by:
Bruce Nicholson written by: Bruce Nicholson genre: Dance |
A relevant quote? Aspire to create and create to inspire. Very fitting after watching "Dream Arabesque" from Bruce Nicholson. Not quite a traditional short film - but worthy of many eyes none the less. It starts off as a dream, the dream of Casey Lee Thorne - possibly during an afternoon snooze. In this dream she is dancing. To quote another phrase, dancing like nobody is watching. As the strangely exotic melody engulfed my ears, and Casey's dream-like image my eyes - one thing became clear. This dance was not for, or about whomever happened to be secretly invading her mind. This dance was for her. Her release.
As she spun herself along with the music, I couldn't help but feel at peace. Her outstretched hands and feet, at times, feeling like they were changing the very circle she existed within. Graceful, difficult, and totally captivating. The dream of dreamers and children. A perfect windup dancer, set free from the mechanical. Also, an excellently choreographed dance showcased by a simple production - allowing the focus to stay where it should stay. On Casey herself. Although not really a film with a first, second and third act - Nicholson's production does technically meet the requirements to call itself a movie. It's edited nicely, keeping Casey at the forefront of our attention, and it does have a structure. The first act would be introducing our sleeping leading lady. The second act her dream, and finally her emerging back to the real world. I'm not sure any real story exists, save a dream, but that's not really the point. "Dream Arabesque" is simply meant to be enjoyed. To allow yourself to simply be. I know - I know. That sounds very yoga-ish but in truth? It about sums things up. If programmers like Netflix can include a fireplace video, or artificial fish tank as a programming option for viewers - something like this would easily overtake them. I would much rather watch Thorne dance any day.
There's really not much more to write. "Dream Arabesque" is exactly what it says on the box. Something to watch, relax with and even wind down. The exotic melody, while keeping you relaxed, stops you from completely drifting off - to enjoy the dance itself. There's no need to explain anything - you just simply tune in and watch. For a short film, that's not entirely a film at all, this was a few minutes I'm glad to have spent. A well earned three and a half stars. |
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