Danzante

Members of the Danza Aztec de Anahuac of Taos, New Mexico, recreate the dances of their Aztec ancestors from Aztlan, is this exceptionally colorful and beautifully filmed documentary. Dressed in traditional costumes, the group performs dances to the accompaniment of the drum: ritual dances for their ancestors, an homage to the four directions, preparatory dances for war, and dances celebrating death and rebirth. Interwoven with the dances are interview clips with the participants, offering insights into Aztec traditions and ceremonies. Occasionally, the dancers offer the kind of statements that make "multiculturalism" such an easy target for social critics (vague comments like "freedom from incorrect Americanism is a necessity.") But besides a few verbal faux pas's, Danzante is a wonderful look at traditional Aztec dances, including the dance of the "Young Fireload," in which a dancer rather cleverly (but don't try this at home) lights his toes on fire. The other drawback is the lack of a cover, since few browsers of the video collection will be a drawn to a plain black box with the cryptic word "Danzante" alone on it. Still, if you've got a little clipart to accompany this, it offers some real eye-openers in the way of dances. Recommended. (Available from: PBS Video, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314-1698; (800) 344-3337.)