Irlan and Isabela are two teenagers from the violent favelas of Rio de Janeiro, united by a shared dream of becoming professional ballet dancers. This moving documentary traces their journey from Brazil to the world’s most competitive stages in New York and Switzerland. Along the way, their passion and determination are tested, revealing the sacrifices and risks behind the pursuit of excellence.

An “inspiring, involving documentary [that] traces the stories of two dancers from the favelas of Rio de Janiero in a disarmingly simple way” (Shadows on the Wall), Beadie Finzi's ONLY WHEN I DANCE was nominated for the Documentary Jury Prize at the Tribeca Film Festival.

DIRECTED BY BEADIE FINZI
BRAZIL, UNITED KINGDOM | 2009 | PORTUGUESE & ENGLISH WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES