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Review

The life and work of Paul Taylor, one of today's greatest living dance choreographers today, is celebrated in this Academy Award Nominated film (Best Documentary Feature). The film is a breathtaking journey into the world of Taylor and his extraordinary creations. From the fluid Aureole to the primal Cloven Kingdom and romantic Esplanade, Taylor has remained at the forefront of 20th century modern dance. Offering a rare glimpse into the creative collaboration between the master and his hardworking troupe, Dancemaker chronicles the evolution of the fiery, tango-derived Piazzolla Caldera from its first tentative steps through its triumphant New York City premiere. Filled with magnificent archival footage from Taylor's early years as a featured dancer for the Martha Graham Dance Company and inspired performances from his troupe, the film is a unique exploration of the mysteries of creative life, the obsession and talent of the dancers, and the mind of an artistic genius. Director Diamond, a dancer himself, is not afraid to show the man -- now in his 60s -- in all facets, including being temperamental, fiery and autocratic. The one scene in which he fires a dancer whom he says he can not work with. ``I have no moral attitude, really,'' he says. ``I'm a reporter. I report things as I see them.''