African Cypher

Bryan Little's documentary about dance styles developed within differing South African townships is fascinating.  He interviews a number of different groups from Soweto to Capetown to Durban.  Each has a unique style, but these groups represent identity, family, and often an escape from a life of crime.

Filming on the streets, in claustrophobic interiors, and on the stage of a nationwide competition, you see the different groups performing and speaking about the importance of dance in their lives.  Some beautiful music video type shots of the teams are included, but I enjoyed seeing them dancing in the streets of surrounded by members of their own community.  There is some commentary, but for the most part, the director lets the subjects speak for themselves.  What they have to say is equal to their dancing.