Ballerina (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Ballerina” (also known as “Leap!” in some regions) is a 2016 animated musical adventure film directed by Éric Summer and Éric Warin. The film features the voices of Dane DeHaan, Elle Fanning, Maddie Ziegler, and Carly Rae Jepsen. It follows the journey of a young girl aspiring to become a ballet dancer against the backdrop of 19th-century Paris.
Plot Summary
“Ballerina” tells the story of Félicie, a young orphan from Brittany with a dream of becoming a prima ballerina. Despite her humble beginnings and lack of formal training, Félicie is determined to pursue her passion for ballet. Alongside her best friend Victor, who aspires to be a great inventor, she travels to Paris to join the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet.
Dreams and Determination
The film explores Félicie’s journey as she overcomes numerous obstacles to achieve her dream. From auditioning for the Paris Opera Ballet to dealing with rival dancers and learning from her mentor, Odette, Félicie’s determination and passion drive her story forward.
Personal Growth
As Félicie navigates the competitive world of ballet, she learns important life lessons about perseverance, friendship, and self-belief. Her journey is not only about mastering ballet techniques but also about finding her place and identity in a challenging environment.
Victor’s Journey
Parallel to Félicie’s story, Victor also faces his own challenges as he works to become a successful inventor. His character provides a supportive and loyal counterpart to Félicie’s journey, and their friendship adds depth to the film’s narrative.
Voice Performances
Elle Fanning voices Félicie, delivering a spirited and emotional performance that captures the character’s ambition and determination. Fanning’s voice work adds charm and depth to the role, making Félicie a relatable and inspiring protagonist.
Dane DeHaan provides the voice for Victor, adding a touch of humor and heart to the character. DeHaan’s performance complements Fanning’s, creating a dynamic and supportive partnership.
Maddie Ziegler voices Camille, Félicie’s rival, and Carly Rae Jepsen contributes to the film’s musical elements with her song, adding a contemporary touch to the soundtrack.
Themes and Audience Appeal
“Ballerina” explores themes of dreams, perseverance, and personal growth. The film highlights the importance of following one’s passion and overcoming obstacles to achieve one’s goals. It also touches on themes of friendship and the value of support from loved ones.
The movie appeals to audiences of all ages, particularly those who enjoy animated films with strong, inspiring messages. Its focus on ballet and the world of dance adds an artistic and aspirational element that resonates with viewers interested in the performing arts.
Family-Friendly Entertainment
The film is suitable for families and children, offering a positive and uplifting story with beautiful animation and engaging musical numbers. Its themes of ambition and self-discovery make it an inspiring watch for young audiences.
Visuals and Animation
The animation style of “Ballerina” is vibrant and detailed, capturing the elegance and grace of ballet. The film’s portrayal of Paris and the ballet world is visually stunning, with colorful and dynamic animation that enhances the storytelling.
The choreography and dance sequences are a highlight, showcasing the art of ballet through expressive and fluid animation. The visual elements contribute to the film’s overall charm and appeal, creating an immersive experience for viewers.
Reception and Impact
“Ballerina” received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences. The film was praised for its charming animation, inspiring story, and strong voice performances. It was noted for its appeal to both children and adults, offering a heartwarming and entertaining experience.
While the film may not have achieved major box office success, it has been appreciated for its quality animation and its ability to inspire and entertain viewers of all ages.
Streaming Availability: Where to Watch “Ballerina” Online
If you’re interested in watching “Ballerina”, the film is available on several streaming platforms and rental services.
Amazon Prime Video
“Ballerina” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99 for HD quality, with purchasing options usually between $9.99 and $14.99.
Apple iTunes
Apple iTunes offers “Ballerina” for rent and purchase. Rental prices generally start at $3.99 for HD quality, with purchase options around $9.99 to $14.99. The film can be streamed on Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs.
Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV provides “Ballerina” for rental or purchase. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, typically between $3.99 and $4.99, with purchasing options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
Disney+
As of my knowledge cutoff date, “Ballerina” is not available on Disney+, but checking the platform for any updates is recommended.
Final Thoughts
“Ballerina” is a delightful and inspiring animated film that offers a heartwarming story of ambition and perseverance. With its beautiful animation, engaging characters, and uplifting message, the film provides an enjoyable experience for viewers of all ages.
Whether you’re a fan of ballet, animation, or simply enjoy a good story of personal growth, “Ballerina” is worth watching. Its availability on various streaming platforms ensures that its charming and motivational narrative can be easily enjoyed.
