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Deep Dive: Varicella (2015)

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Varicella
Varicella follows seven-year-old Polina and her 13-year-old sister Nastia as they pursue ballet at the Boris Eifman Dance Academy in Saint Petersburg. The film captures their daily lives as they await their grades to determine if they will be promoted to the next year. Nastia takes on a supportive role, guiding Polina through the academic pressures of the academy. The documentary features a mix of stylistic shots that range from calm and clinical to warm and lively. This visual approach complements the narrative of the sisters' dedication to ballet while also highlighting the demanding environment of the academy.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Polina and Nastia, young ballet dancers in training.
  • •See the rigorous environment of the Boris Eifman Dance Academy.
  • •Find out how siblings support each other in ballet.

Did You Know

•Polina is seven years old and Nastia is 13 years old.
•The film is set in Saint Petersburg at the Boris Eifman Dance Academy.
•The documentary has a runtime of 25 minutes.

Perfect For

Ballet enthusiastsSisterhood storiesDance academy life