Australian dance fans will soon have the chance to see the acclaimed biopic John Cranko on the big screen. While having premiered internationally, the film is set for its Australian cinematic release as an official selection of the 2025 HSBC German Film Festival, which tours nationally from April 30th to May 28th.
Directed by Joachim A Lang (Mack the Knife), John Cranko stars Sam Riley (Control, SS-GB) in a performance praised for its moving portrayal of the visionary choreographer. The film delves into Cranko's life, particularly focusing on his pivotal move from London to Stuttgart in 1960. Facing legal issues in the UK at the time due to his homosexuality, Cranko found a new artistic home in Germany and rapidly revitalised the Stuttgart Ballet with his dynamic energy and creative genius.
A key narrative thread is the creation and impact of his now-iconic production of Romeo and Juliet. The movie recounts how this production became a sensational success, elevating the Stuttgart Ballet to international prominence and leading to invitations to perform at prestigious venues globally.
The biopic explores not only Cranko's remarkable artistic achievements but also the personal complexities he faced. It touches on his intense drive for perfection and the private struggles that were part of his life during his extraordinary career.
Adding powerful authenticity, the film features members of the current Stuttgart Ballet performing dance sequences. These are set to a rich score comprised of newly recorded excerpts from classical works by composers like Brahms, Britten, Verdi, Tchaikovsky, and Prokofiev, performed by the Stuttgart State Opera Orchestra.
The cast also includes Elisa Badenes, Max Schimmelpfennig, Hanns Zischler, and Lucas Gregorowicz. The film has a running time of 133 minutes and is showing at Palace Cinemas Australia