SS Film Fest - And Then We Danced

[Levan Akin, Sweden/Georgia, 2019, 113 min]

Jaw-dropping in its hyper-masculine physicality, traditional Georgian dance takes centre stage in this passionate coming-of-age tale set amidst the rigidly conservative and staunchly nationalistic confines of modern Georgian society.

Having trained for years for a coveted position in the National Georgian Ensemble, Merab’s orderly world is turned upside-down with the arrival of the handsome and charismatic Iralki, a talented dancer with a rebellious streak. Gifted with perfect form, Iralki throws Merab off balance, sparking an intense rivalry – and unexpected romantic desire – that jeopardizes everything he has worked for his entire life.

Sweden’s official entry to the Oscars, this provocative film recently sparked three days of rioting by rightwing groups when it premiered in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi.

Co-presented by “Dance Your Ability Therapeutic Movement Foundation” and “DAISSI – Diverse and Inclusive Salt Spring Island,” this intoxicating tale of love and liberation has won multiple awards at film festivals around the world.