Degas and the Dance

Inspired by a 2003 exhibition of the work of Edgar Degas (1834-1917) at the Detroit Institute of Arts, the PBS-aired Degas and the Dance focuses on the French artist's best known work: namely, his depictions of ballet dancers (though his fascination with capturing movement on canvas also led him to paint racehorses--something ignored here). Essentially a chronological profile, the program combines narration smoothly delivered by Frank Langella, recreations of the artist in his studio featuring Peter Badger, excerpts from Degas' writings read by Brian Bedford, skillful use of period photographs, and modern film of locations that the artist himself visited. But the most memorable element here is the camera's loving examination of the paintings, sculptures, and engravings themselves, which even onscreen have an almost tactile presence (the program makes an effective argument in favor of the opinion of Richard Kendall, one of the curators of the Detroit exhibit, that Degas ought not to be dismissed as simply a “charming realist”). Offering excellent added value, the DVD version includes six additional sequences (including tours of the Paris Opera Library and a pastel shop Degas patronized); magnifications of nine of Degas' works, accompanied by commentary from the exhibit curators; a timeline of the artist's life; and archival photos of dancers from Degas' era. Recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek)