Description
Looks at the construction of femininity through dance. By looking at a class of 8 -10 year-olds in their ballet class we start to understand pressure on girls to conform to a romantic notion of beauty. Interviews with the ballet teacher and with Francoise Sergy, a New Dancer, then extends this into an understanding of the feelings of rejection which are experienced by those who cannot or do not conform to this image. The ballet class acts as a metaphor for the preparation for femininity which is undergone by women in our culture. An animated sequence towards the end of the programme draws together some of the themes explored throughout the programme.
Made in 1985 this film reflects the cultural attitudes of the country and language of the time it was made. The issues raised are timeless. The film quality may not be to modern standards.
A Lesson in Gender from Concord Media on Vimeo.