A Cartoon Ballet | Ballerina on the Boat

Title: Ballerina on the Boat (released in 1969)
Directed by: Lev Atamanov
Written by Roza Khusnutdinova
Cinematography by Mikhail Druyan
Music by: Alfred Schnittke
Choreography: J. Popko & M. Skott (Bolshoi Ballerinas)

Awards:
Romanian Silver Pelican Prize, 1970
ICF Prize for ‘Best film in London, 1970

Synopsis:

Among the passengers of a sailing ship is a young and elegant ballerina. Throughout the voyage, she rehearses her steps on the deck while admiring the beautiful views of the sea. The sailors enjoy watching the way she moves so gracefully and attempt to imitate her, quite unsuccessfully. One by one they fall into the sea, needing to be rescued. However, the ballerina continues on, her dancing becoming more and more flamboyant and seemingly impossible. Although amazed by her grace, the sailor and passengers grow annoyed by her practice and the unfortunate chaos that she has indirectly caused. As a result, the ballerina is forced to stop her exercises and apologetically retires to her cabin.

That night, the ship enters a terrible storm, and then a terrifying whirlpool. The crew are frantically trying to get the ship safely moored to a tree, but to no avail. The ballerina awakes and realises the turmoil that they are in. She appears on the deck and with one flying leap, she lands on the shore and safely ties anchor line to the tree, thus saving everyone from an inevitable death. The sailors, through imitating the dancer one more time, manage to reach the shore as well and haul the boat in. There is a great celebration, and they all dance together. Upon arrival at the port, the whole crew gather to wish a fond farewell to the ballerina as she gradually disappears into the distance, with fireworks lighting up the sky.

Recently I discovered this adorable animation and simply had to share it. ‘Ballerina on the Boat’ is one of the most exquisite little films I have ever seen. It has an elegance and an innocence to it, telling a sweet story of a ballerina on a boat who saves them all from a terrible storm. The animation is incredibly charming and beautiful to watch. There are no words, and therefore no need for subtitles. Instead, the quirky music by Schnittke does well to bring the story to life, with moments of humour, solemnity, and of course, beauty.

I honestly cannot get over how charming and delightful it is to watch, and would recommend it to anyone. It is both timeless as well as a snapshot of a seemingly bygone era. It is gentle yet captivating, light-hearted yet poignant. So wonderfully crafted by all who were involved, it is something that should never be forgotten, and should continue to be enjoyed for many centuries to come.

And oh, how I would love to be that ballerina!