AllMovie

A note for the uninitiated: a prima ballerina assoluta represents the highest ranking of ballerina for women. Originally designated by the Italian Ballet Masters of the Romantic Ballet period, it is profoundly difficult to achieve; Frenchwoman Yvette Chauviré fit the bill perfectly, however. A dancer adroit with numerous forms, from classical to romantic ballets, Chauviré inspired countless artists and - some would argue - not only equaled but transcended the crème-de-la-crème of her chosen field. This 1987 documentary by director Dominique Delouche embodies one of the few filmed biographical portraits of Chauviré.