#406: KROLL, Nathan: Martha Graham: Dance On Film (1959)

KROLL, Nathan (United States)

Martha Graham: Dance On Film [1959]

Spine #406
DVD

One of the great artistic forces of the twentieth century, performer, choreographer, and teacher Martha Graham influenced dance worldwide. Criterion presents a sampling of her stunning craft, all collaborations with television arts-programming pioneer Nathan Kroll. A Dancer's World (1957), narrated by Graham herself, is a glimpse into her class work and methodology. Appalachian Spring (1958) and Night Journey (1961) are two complete Graham ballets, the first a celebration of the American pioneer spirit, scored by Aaron Copland, the second a powerfully physical rendering of the Oedipus myth. These are signature Graham works and tributes to the art of the human body.

A Dancer's World

31 minutes

Appalachian Spring

32 minutes

Night Journey

29 minutes

Black & White

Monaural

1:33:1 aspect ratio

Criterion Release 2007

Director

Nathan Kroll

The Film

Film Rating (0-60):

60

The Extras

The Booklet

Twenty-page booklet featuring an essay by Joan Acocella.

Commentary

None.

Comparison

Of Appalachian Spring with an archival performance, by dance critic and historian Deborah Jowitt.

Excerpts 1

From a television pilot featuring composer Aaron Copland discussing his work on Appalachian Spring.

Visual essay

On working with Graham, narrated by Nathan Kroll.

Interivew

With Museum of Television and Radio curator Ron Simon, discussing Kroll’s work and legacy.

Interviews 1

With the films’ editors, Eleanor Hamerow and Miriam Arsham.

Martha Graham The Dance Revealed

A 1994 documentary produced for PBS’s American Masters series.

Interviews 2

With six dancers from the films.

Excerpts 2

From a 1975 filmed technique demonstration by Graham’s company, narrated by Graham.

Footage

Of Graham’s company from a 1954 European tour.

39

60 + 39 =

99

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