Exploring Dance and Drama in Prime Video’s ‘Étoile’
Prime Video’s latest series, Étoile, launched its fifth episode recently, inviting viewers into the elegantly chaotic world of ballet. The narrative begins with Jack McMillan, played by Luke Kirby, who is the executive director of the Metropolitan Ballet Theater, waiting outside New York’s Film Forum. He is expecting a meeting with Geneviève Lavigne, portrayed by Charlotte Gainsbourg, the general director of Le Ballet National in Paris. The marquee prominently features “Frederick Wiseman’s Ballet & La Danse,” which highlights the creators’ respect for the documentary genre and their understanding of the cultural landscape surrounding dance.
Creative Roots and Rich Theatricality
Co-created by Amy Sherman-Palladino and Dan Palladino, known for their previous work on Gilmore Girls and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Étoile resonates with their signature blend of wit, romance, and performance arts. Sherman-Palladino, with a background in dance, incorporates elements reminiscent of classic screwball comedies into the dialogue and storytelling style. The interplay of high-energy dialogue and vibrant location settings around New York’s Lincoln Center and Paris’s Palais Garnier creates an engaging viewing experience.
Plot Dynamics and Character Exchanges
The core of the storyline involves a strategic proposal from Geneviève aimed at reviving their flagging ballet companies. With both institutions facing dwindling audiences and post-pandemic revenue challenges, they aim to generate buzz by swapping top talent. Funding for this venture comes from Crispin Shamblee (Simon Callow), a wealthy patron with dubious ties, adding a comedic yet complex layer to the narrative.
- Mishi Duplessis (Taïs Vinolo), a contested dancer, is reassigned from Paris to New York.
- Tobias Bell (Gideon Glick), a quirky genius choreographer, is also part of the exchange.
- On the reverse, Paris receives Cheyenne Toussaint (Lou de Laâge), an existing star ballerina with a complex history with Jack.
Character Development and Performance
Cheyenne’s introduction is marked by an intense scene showcasing her eco-activism, drawing immediate contrast with the ballet world’s aesthetic. Her powerful portrayal adds depth to the series, although comically intense, showcasing the rigors and demands of being an étoile. Meanwhile, the interactions among characters often lead to unexpected, humorous exchanges that enhance the show’s charm.
Series Structure and Themes
Étoile embraces a non-linear storytelling approach, prioritizing character development and individual narratives over a tightly defined plot. This method allows for a rich exploration of various subplots focusing on dancers, colleagues, and the broader implications of their work within the ballet community. As the first season progresses, it has introduced new conflicts and characters, hinting at a potential second season.
Key performances stand out, particularly Kirby’s portrayal of Jack, characterized by a captivating fusion of nervous energy and determination. Gainsbourg’s Geneviève exudes authority, embodying the complexities of a ballet director striving for success amidst industry challenges.
Conclusion
While Étoile explores serious themes such as aging audiences and cultural relevance in dance, it does so through a lens of humor, vibrant character interplay, and theatricality. The authenticity is bolstered by cameos from real-life figures in the dance world, further bridging the gap between reality and performance. The duplicity of the highs and lows in the world of ballet, merged with engaging storylines and character exchanges, makes this series a commendable addition to Prime Video’s offerings.