Neneh's Dance Revolution: A Ballet Tale of Joy and Empowerment

Neneh Superstar: A Dazzling Journey Against Odds

Meet Neneh, portrayed by the talented Oumy Bruni Garrel, a spirited 12-year-old girl who shines unapologetically in her individuality. This promising film brings forth a story that resonates deeply with themes of resilience and determination, particularly in the cutthroat world of ballet.

In the riveting realm of film, ballet has often served as an exquisite backdrop, capturing the essence of struggle and triumph. Movies like Black Swan, Billy Elliot, and The Red Shoes are prime examples. However, Neneh Superstar takes a refreshing turn by focusing on the challenges faced by a young Black girl aiming to carve her path amidst institutionalized racism in ballet.

Under the adept direction of Ramzi Ben Sliman, this heartwarming story unfolds as Neneh-Fanta Gnaoré—an audacious French girl—auditions for the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet School. A natural talent, she radiates confidence whether freestyling to hip-hop beats on the streets or executing flawless pirouettes.

However, her journey is far from straightforward. Upon acceptance into the ballet school, Neneh is faced with the harsh realities of prejudice upheld by gatekeepers adamant about “preserving tradition.” This facade of "traditionalism" often translates into a commitment to maintaining ballet's historically white narrative.

At times, the racism Neneh encounters seems almost cartoonish in its blatantness. In a gripping scene that showcases judges debating her admission, their comments range from thinly veiled hints about “aesthetic uniformity” to outright discriminatory remarks questioning her Black body and its supposed “risks” as she matures. Such depictions, though exaggerated, reflect real sentiments that persist within elite dance institutions.

The Paris Opera Ballet School has faced intense scrutiny and calls for reform, particularly following past instances of performers being put in blackface. Similarly, real-life stories, like that of French