Rize (PG-13)
synopsis
Taking advantage of unprecedented access, this documentary film brings to first light a revolutionary form of artistic expression borne from oppression. The aggressive and visually stunning dance modernizes moves indigenous to African tribal rituals and features mind-blowing, athletic movement sped up to impossible speeds. "Rize" tracks the fascinating evolution of the dance: we meet Tommy Johnson (Tommy the Clown), who first created the style as a response to the 1992 Rodney King riots and named it "Clowning," as well as the kids who developed the movement into what they now call Krumping. The kids use dance as an alternative to gangs and hustling: they form their own troupes and paint their faces like warriors, meeting to outperform rival gangs of dancers or just to hone their skills. For the dancers, Krumping becomes a way of life -- and, because it's authentic expression (in complete opposition to the bling-bling, Hip-Hop culture), the dance becomes a vital part of who they are.
details
Documentary
1 hr. 24 min.
Opened June 24th, 2005
MovieGoer Review
Hipsters have been clued in since Sundance 2005. But for the rest of us, Rize, an indie documentary about dance on the poor streets of South L.A., might have appeared at first glance, well, vague. It's not. Amplified by a slick, infectious ... MORE
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synopsis
Taking advantage of unprecedented access, this documentary film brings to first light a revolutionary form of artistic expression borne from oppression. The aggressive and visually stunning dance modernizes moves indigenous to African tribal rituals and features mind-blowing, athletic movement sped up to impossible speeds. "Rize" tracks the fascinating evolution of the dance: we meet Tommy Johnson (Tommy the Clown), who first created the style as a response to the 1992 Rodney King riots and named it "Clowning," as well as the kids who developed the movement into what they now call Krumping. The kids use dance as an alternative to gangs and hustling: they form their own troupes and paint their faces like warriors, meeting to outperform rival gangs of dancers or just to hone their skills. For the dancers, Krumping becomes a way of life -- and, because it's authentic expression (in complete opposition to the bling-bling, Hip-Hop culture), the dance becomes a vital part of who they are.
details
Documentary
1 hr. 24 min.
Opened June 24th, 2005
MovieGoer Review
Hipsters have been clued in since Sundance 2005. But for the rest of us, Rize, an indie documentary about dance on the poor streets of South L.A., might have appeared at first glance, well, vague. It's not. Amplified by a slick, infectious ... MORE
