MAO'S LAST DANCER (REVIEW)
Uplifting
and amazing are only two words that can describe this true story based on the
best selling autobiography of ballet dancer, Li Cuxton.
All
the elements are here leading to triumph. A wonderful rags to riches story with
most of it played out amongst a political backdrop. Against all odds, the extraordinary
tale is told with tenderness over a watchful eye by Australian director Bruce
Beresford (Driving Miss Daisy).
From a peasant family upbringing
in a closely guarded rural community, Li is taken away as the 6th child by the
Chinese Government and as a teenager is trained at the Beijing arts academy of
dancing. With an obvious talent and lots of determination, his teacher says to
him, 'Build up your strength and you'll soon be able to fly'. These scenes are
told in flashback which engulfs the audience in the circumstances which brought
him to America.
The film begins in Houston, 1981. Things are
not always perfect for Li. Visa issues and racial vilification present themselves
as stumbling blocks to his career. It doesn't take long for Li to not only get
satisfaction on the dance stage, but off it too, falling in love with fellow performer
Liz. She is beautiful and very appealing to Li with her straight laced nature
towards life - an unlikely match but also perfect in so many ways.
Being
in the U.S to dance is something Li has strived for, but he also misses his family
and goes to rather huge lengths to be reunited with them. Tugging at the heartstrings
is a common occurrence as the story unfolds with a slowly building charisma.
In
a scene when this finally happens, as the parents see their son who became separated
from them at the age of 20, there will not be a dry eye in the house. A magical
moment of pure cinema joy.
The tense standoff between the U.S
and Chinese governments caused all sorts of concern after the defection turning
into an international tirade among authorities, almost causing the reunion never
to happen at all. The acting is above brilliant - perfect choices for all the
main players. None more so than Chi Cao as Li Cuxton. An honest portrayal that
is faithful to the book source, holding your attention with a certain quiet emotional
edge needed for the role.
Bruce Greenwood is outstanding as
the not too camp, but oh so naturalistic artistic director, mentor and friend
to Li. A familiar array of Australian talent have minor roles such as Jack Thompson,
but the welcome return to the big screen from Joan Chen (Twin Peaks) as Li's Mother
and Kyle MacLachlan as a Texan lawyer make an impact in every scene they appear.
Li Cuxton himself has been quoted as being 'thrilled with
the finished product'. This is certainly a much needed tick to the Australian
Film Industry. Special note must go to the super choreography from legendary Graeme
Murphy - a maestro amongst the dance fraternity.
Mao's Last
Dancer is truly a crowd pleasing experience, a requiem of pleasure.
Shane
A. Bassett
