Secundaria: The Lives of Young Ballet Students in Cuba

Secundaria Documentary
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May 14, 2023
Understanding the underlying themes and meaning in films is essential for any viewer. It allows him to better appreciate the maker's intentions, thus providing a more critical analysis of the piece. Accordingly, Secundaria is a compelling and moving documentary that provides an intimate look into the lives of young ballet students in Cuba. Directed by Mary Jane Doherty, the film follows the lives of students at the National Ballet School of Cuba over three years, ages 14 to 16.
Cuba and the World of Ballet
The film provides a rare and unique glimpse into the ballet world in Cuba, which has a rich history and tradition of producing some of the world's finest dancers. As we watch the students navigate the rigorous demands of their training, we see the immense pressure they are under to succeed academically and in their ballet training.
Upon watching the film, I realized that mental, emotional, and physical struggles are a constant presence throughout the film. The students face intense competition from their peers and the pressure of auditioning for coveted roles and performances. Many of the dancers also struggle with homesickness, missing their families, and the stress of balancing their personal lives with their rigorous training schedule (Di, 2021).
In addition to these challenges, the film highlights the impact that external factors such as poverty and racism can have on students. Many dancers come from low-income families and must work to support themselves and their families while attending school. This can make it difficult for them to focus on their ballet training and can impact their ability to succeed in the highly competitive world of ballet (Critical Dance, 2014).
Moreover, some of the students face discrimination due to their race or socio-economic status, which can further hinder their ability to succeed. The film illustrates how the students must navigate a complex web of socio-political issues that impact their lives in ways that are often beyond their control.
Despite these challenges, however,` the stud...