Wendy Feinberg on Call Me Dancer (2023) which opens Friday

Opening theatrically on 12/15, CALL ME DANCER, has already won numerous awards at film festivals around the world. After watching this most endearing and inspirational film, I can see why it has stood out as the “best of many fests”. 

The film tells the story of Manish, a poor self-taught Indian hip hop dancer from Mumbai, who aspires to make something of himself in the dance world. He wanders into the ballet studio of 75 year-old Israeli-American dance master, Yehuda, who soon becomes Manish’s mentor and close friend. Over time, we see their relationship develop into one of a grandfather and grandson.

Manish’s dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer are not supported by his parents and Manish’s mom believes that dance is a hobby for rich people.

His parents are depending on him to get an education and support them. With Yehuda’s help, they relent and let Manish follow his passion. Yehuda, a tough but lovable loner with a passion for dance, sees something in Manish and takes him under his wing to help refine his dance skills.  He is alone in India teaching at a dance studio after having a successful dance career and is trying to find himself. His connection to Manish leads him to find a greater purpose in his life and also assists him in developing a stronger connection to a strange land.

Although it hurts to see him go, Yehuda helps Manish get an internship at the Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Co. in Israel. This ultimately leads to an invitation for Manish to join the Peridance Co. in New York City and many more opportunities. No matter where they are, the bond between Yehuda and Manish is never broken. Whether in person, on the phone or through the internet, Yehuda is always there for Manish.  

This film is the total package! It is an extremely heartwarming, beautiful story that is artfully told by directors Leslie Champagne and Pip Gilmour. It is more than a film about a dancer. It’s a story about hardship, perseverance, hope, compassion and love. It brought tears to my eyes in many places, but especially when Manish says goodbye to Yehuda before leaving for New York City. I loved this film and highly recommend for all to see!

CALL ME DANCER   has already won numerous awards at film festivals around the world. After watching this most endearing and inspirational film, I can see why it has stood out as the “best of many fests”.