Documentary "First Position" Positioned for Oscar Gold

The documentary film, "First Position," was introduced by the filmaker, Bess Kargman, a former dancer, who addressed the audience before its screening.  Ms. Kargman, a former dancer herself, said that she wanted to show the lives of young ballet dancers, along with their families and teachers, who dream of making ballet dancing their live's vocation.  The film follows 6 main dancers, all gearing towards the Youth America Grand Prix, one of the world's most prestigious ballet competitions; leading to scholarships and professional job offers.  Kargman said she did not make this movie for those who love the ballet, but for the person who is "dragged," to the ballet by the lover of ballet.  As a ballet dancer and lover of the art form, I of course, loved every frame of this film.  But, Kargman is off POINT in hoping that those who do not truly enjoy ballet will want to see this film.  The dancing and grueling regiments of the dancers will be too repetitive and dull for most people who do not appreciate ballet, especially since ballet is best enjoyed as a live performance.  However, I urge all dancers and all parents whose children have a passion for sports or the arts, make this the FIRST movie to see this weekend.  The tenacity and passion of these young people and the love and support they receive is nothing short of inspirational.