directed by Joachim A. Lang
starring Sam Riley, Elisa Badenes, Max Schimmelpfennig, Hanns Zischler, Lucas Gregorowicz
produced by Zeitsprung Pictures in co-production with SWR
A cinematic, dance-infused tribute to the virtuoso choreographer who became a pop star on the world's greatest ballet stages (‘Ingenious and breathtaking,' The New York Times). Sam Riley ("Control") delivers a profoundly moving performance, seamlessly navigating the dark depths and creative frenzy of his character.
Prosecuted for homosexual activity in London, the up-and-coming choreographer John Cranko is stranded in Stuttgart, Germany in 1960. With his charming demeanor, the manic workaholic swiftly revitalizes the ballet company of this rather sleepy, sympathetic city. After a controversial replacement of the prima donna and a series of new additions, Cranko's first production of Romeo and Juliet is a sensational success: the emotional performances of his dancers move the audience to tears. Cranko becomes the darling of the public, with a soon globally renowned ensemble, invited to perform at prestigious venues such as New York's Metropolitan Opera and Beijing's Tianqiao Theatre. Driven by a quest for perfection in both art and love, Cranko grapples with destructive private setbacks, plunging into periods of profound loneliness and depression. However, as long as his devoted dancers stand by him, he sees no reason to alter his intoxicating lifestyle…