In an environment where physical beauty is important but athletic prowess and a sense of rhythmic artistry are crucial, dance is shown for all of its injury-plagued, grueling glory. Dance companies are like families, the film emphasizes.
Discord is commonplace.
Taylor leaped to modern-dance fame with pioneer Martha Graham. Like many of her stars, he parted with her less than amicably to set out on his own. The film's title comes from Taylor's own description of what he does. It's a rather unassuming characterization for one globally regarded as a true genius. Yet, the film makes clear this job entails not only the visionary creation of new dances, but also being taskmaster, father figure, publicist, muse and bean-counter.