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Bella

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2:27

Bella

Released Nov 10, 2023

1h 38m

Documentary

Biography

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3 Reviews

89%

Popcornmeter

Fewer than 50 Ratings

The film, Bella, is about the life, influence and impact of California-based artist and activist Bella Lewitzky. Described as "...one of the greatest American dancers of our age," (Walter Terry). Bella Lewitzky was a talented, strong, out-spoken individual, who dedicated her creative life to protect the rights of every American. Designated one of America's irreplaceable dance treasures by the Dance Heritage Coalition and awarded the national medal of arts, Lewitzky's life demonstrates how a "uniquely Californian" artist with vision and tenacity can change the lives of her fellow citizens.

Nell Minow

RogerEbert.com

Her dedication to her artistic vision is inspiring, but this film shows us that it is her life, one of purpose and integrity, that is her most important lesson.

Rated: 3.5/4

Mar 16, 2024

Full Review

Neely Swanson

Easy Reader (California)

Although seen entirely through her eyes, suffering no contrary opinions, it is wonderful to renew an acquaintance with one of the most important dancers of the 20th century.

Nov 6, 2023

Full Review

Nora Lee Mandel

Maven's Nest

Informative, absorbing bio-doc about work on stage and off of dancer/choreographer Bella Lewitzky. With an amazing array of dance and archival clips, from early performances in '30s through her company’s final curtain call in '97, primary voice is hers.

Rated: 9/10

Feb 16, 2023

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David B

Brilliantly done! It was a joy to watch.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars

03/19/24

Full Review

Kim N

Very informative and a pleasure to watch! Learn more about who Bella Lewitzky was and the amazing life she led as a modern dance pioneer in California. Her work greatly influenced the dance movement and choreography in the movie industry as well as on stage.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/19/24

Full Review

Judith R

This documentary about little known dancer and choreographer Bella Lewitzky is amazing. It's fascinating, riveting, and emotional. I was moved by how beautifully the film portrayed the struggles and richness of this extraordinary woman's life. Bridget Murname, the Producer and Director of this film, is a cinematic genius for capturing the life of the iconic Bella Lewitzky so perfectly.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/16/24

Full Review

Kami C

A beautiful film featuring some spectacular dance and telling the story of a remarkable person.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/15/24

Full Review

Deborah H

A reverent look at the life and achievements of Bella Lewitsky. Many of my dancing friends have always held her work in high esteem and now I have been able to see why.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

03/15/24

Full Review

Gelia D

Outstanding documentary not only for dance lovers but anyone who values the arts and their importance in our society. BELLA says it -- literally!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/14/24

Full Review

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Bridget Murnane

Director

Carmen De Lavallade

Self

Jeff Rona

Self

Larry Attaway

Self

Alex Bushe

Writer

Pat Verducci

Writer

Bella: Trailer 1

2:27

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Synopsis

The film, Bella, is about the life, influence and impact of California-based artist and activist Bella Lewitzky. Described as "...one of the greatest American dancers of our age," (Walter Terry). Bella Lewitzky was a talented, strong, out-spoken individual, who dedicated her creative life to protect the rights of every American. Designated one of America's irreplaceable dance treasures by the Dance Heritage Coalition and awarded the national medal of arts, Lewitzky's life demonstrates how a "uniquely Californian" artist with vision and tenacity can change the lives of her fellow citizens.

Director: Bridget Murnane
Producer: Bridget Murnane
Screenwriter: Alex Bushe, Pat Verducci, Alex Bushe, Pat Verducci
Distributor: BAM Moves
Production Co: BAM Moves
Genre: Documentary, Biography
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Nov 10, 2023, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Mar 6, 2024
Runtime: 1h 38m