Speed Cinema Presents: Restless Creature: Wendy Whelan
Saturday, September 23, 4:45 pm
Speed Art Museum Cinema
Directed by Linda Saffire and Adam Schlesinger
“As fluid, committed and elegant in its movements as one of Whelan’s performances.” —David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter
Restless Creature offers an intimate portrait of prima ballerina and Louisville native Wendy Whelan as she prepares to leave the New York City Ballet after a record-setting three decades with the company. One of the modern era’s most acclaimed dancers, Whelan was a principal ballerina for the company and danced numerous ballets by George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins, as well as new works by contemporary choreographers like Christopher Wheeldon and Alexi Ratmansky in roles created specifically for her.
As the film opens, Whelan at 46 faces the prospect of retirement as she battles a painful injury that has kept her from performing. The film reveals a woman of tremendous stamina, strength, and good humor. While preparing her body for the rigor of returning to the ballet company, she also branches out to consider collaborations with young contemporary choreographers and the possibilities of extending an exciting career. A selection of the New York Film Festival. 2016, U.S., DCP, 90 minutes. Recommended for 13+.
Wendy Whelan will be in person for post-screening discussions following this screening.
Don’t forget to bring your Speed Art Museum membership card to verify your membership.