Rise (2022 French film)

Rise (French title: En Corps, literally "In Body") is a 2022 French drama film directed by Cédric Klapisch. The film stars Marion Barbeau, Hofesh Shechter, Denis Podalydès, Muriel Robin, Pio Marmaï, and François Civil. It follows Élise (Marion Barbeau), a promising classical ballet dancer whose career is jeopardized by an on-stage injury.

Plot:

Élise, a talented ballet dancer with the Paris Opera Ballet, suffers a severe ankle injury during a performance after discovering her boyfriend has been cheating on her. Her injury requires extensive rehabilitation and throws her future as a dancer into doubt. While recovering, she explores other forms of dance and rediscovers her passion for movement. She works in a community that organizes dance performances, connecting with contemporary dance and encountering new ways of expressing herself. Through these experiences, and with the support of new friends and mentors, Élise confronts her emotional pain and searches for a new path forward, potentially outside the traditional world of classical ballet.

Cast:

• Marion Barbeau as Élise
• Hofesh Shechter as Himself
• Denis Podalydès as Henri, Élise's father
• Muriel Robin as Josiane
• Pio Marmaï as Loïc
• François Civil as Yann
• Souheila Yacoub as Sabrina
• Mehdi Baki as Mehdi
• Alexandre Da Silva as DJ

Themes:

The film explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, artistic reinvention, dealing with loss and heartbreak, and the power of dance as a form of healing and self-expression. It also examines the pressures and sacrifices associated with a career in professional ballet.

Reception:

Rise received generally positive reviews, with critics praising Barbeau's performance, Klapisch's direction, and the film's uplifting message. It was noted for its realistic portrayal of the physical and emotional challenges faced by dancers, as well as its celebration of the art form in its various forms.