I will not pretend to be a dance critic for this review. And I need to say, I am not a huge fan of the avant-garde style of modern dance. With no idea who Philippina “Pina” Bausch was, I ventured to this movie solely on the coming attractions for it. Pina was a dancer, choreographer, dance teacher and artistic director; who was a leading influence, since the 1970’s, of modern dance. Her style was unique, blending movement with different sounds, elaborate sets and what some may consider, unusual props. Philippina would allow her dancers to participate in the creative process of a dance piece to such an extent, that it became known as a style called “Tanztheater.” This film is a tribute to Pina Bausch, since she died only a few days before filming was to begin. Her dancers from Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch (formerly Wuppertal Opera Ballet) perform her works in this 3D presentation. The settings went from the starkness of a bare stage to the rim of a canyon. A variety of props, such as a wheelbarrow of dirt, to a pool of water were incorporated into what may be considered more theatrical pieces than dance numbers. For me, with piece after piece, some of the movements blurred together, leaving me slightly bored. Maybe the director wanted the different dance numbers filmed to teach the viewer about Pina; however, I did not get it. On the other hand, I have always been fascinated with the way the body moves and can appreciate the physicality of the dancers, including the older ones. But I left the theater wishing there was more substance to this movie.

2 2/3 stars