The eventful life of choreographer John Cranko: A dance full of challenges
Joachim A. Lang's film “Cranko” about the legendary choreographer John Cranko with Sam Riley is now in cinemas.
The eventful life of choreographer John Cranko: A dance full of challenges
The new film “Cranko”, which is now being shown in cinemas, sheds a strong light on the eventful life of the legendary choreographer John Cranko. Director Joachim A. Lang and the main actor Sam Riley give an interview with the crown an exciting insight into the filming. Riley, who takes on the role of the Stuttgart ballet director, admitted that he had never attended a ballet, which initially shaped his ideas about the material. But he realized that dance is much more than just acrobatics - it's about the "soul of dance," as Lang emphasizes. The film highlights Cranko's life between fame and inner struggles.
Of poverty and triumph
Cranko, who came to Stuttgart from London in 1960, was confronted with challenges as a homosexual man. After being banned from working in Great Britain, he finally found a place in Stuttgart where his talent was appreciated. He quickly rose to become a ballet director and achieved worldwide recognition, despite the shadows of his past Film releases explained. The film not only addresses his career rise, but also the inner demons that accompanied him. Cranko was not only a successful artist, but also a vulnerable person who had to fight against his fears and depression.
His sudden death on a flight back from the USA, surrounded by his dancers, is a tragic twist in this story. Sam Riley describes Cranko as a complex character who experienced many ups and downs. The film not only wants to honor his art, but also address the important themes of life such as love and the transience of existence in order to bring the emotional depth of the ballet closer to the viewer.