Do you know those moments of artistic appreciation that just cut right to your soul and left you speechless? The kind where you feel goosebumps, like when your favorite song crescendos at just the right moment, or when the lights go down after a heart-stopping ballet performance? For me, ballet is the ultimate form of artistic expression—raw, powerful, and utterly breathtaking. I’ve been in love with ballet since I was a little girl in pink slippers, twirling (well, attempting to) around my childhood living room. And while I’m no longer dancing on stage, my love for the art has only grown over the years.
From seeing “The Nutcracker” every holiday season to rewatching iconic ballet performances, I’ve kept ballet alive in my life. But there’s something special about diving into the behind-the-scenes magic, where the struggles and triumphs of dancers unfold. That’s where ballet documentaries come in, offering an intimate look at the world I love so dearly.
So, if you’re ready to be swept away by the beauty of dance, grab your popcorn, put on your comfy socks, and dive into these seven stunning ballet documentaries you can watch right now.
1. “First Position” (2011)
This documentary follows several young dancers as they prepare to compete in the Youth America Grand Prix, one of the premier ballet competitions in the world. After you watch this, two things will happen: you’ll feel much more motivated to work harder and you’ll spend at least an hour Googling where these kids are now.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, YouTube
2. “Restless Creature: Wendy Whelan” (2016)
Dive into the life of Wendy Whelan, one of the most iconic ballerinas of our time, as she faces the end of her career with the New York City Ballet. “Restless Creature” is a deeply moving exploration of aging, identity, and reinvention, showing the grit and grace of one of ballet’s greatest.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime
3. “Ballet 422” (2014)
Justin Peck is a dancer with the New York City Ballet, and in 2013 he was commissioned to choreograph a new work for the company. This documentary chronicles that process, which has since launched he to superstar status in the world of ballet choreography. Although I wish this film featured a bit more dancing and a bit less broody staring, it’s lovely to witness the origin of what will likely be one of the greatest choreographic talents of our time.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, YouTube
4. “A Ballerina’s Tale” (2015)
Misty Copeland is that rare thing: a ballet dancer whose fame crosses into pop culture territory. Perhaps you’ve seen her interview with Obama, her Under Armour commercial or you simply know her as the first African American dancer to to made a principal at ABT. Whatever the case may be, it’s worth watching this doc on her rise to the top of this white-dominated industry.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime
5. “Dancer” (2016)
“Dancer” follows the rebellious Sergei Polunin, who became the youngest principal dancer in the history of the Royal Ballet at just 19 years old. The film captures Polunin’s meteoric rise to stardom and his struggles with fame and the pressures of the ballet world, offering a raw and unflinching portrait of a ballet prodigy.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, YouTube
6. “ Bolshoi Babylon” (2015)
The Bolshoi is one of Russia’s cultural crown jewels, but in 2013 it was floundering. A star dancer stood trial for throwing acid in the face of company director Sergei Filin, partially blinding him and tearing the company apart. This new documentary chronicles the aftermath of one of the most scandalous events in ballet history.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, iTunes
7. “Bringing Balanchine Back” (2008)
This documentary is an oldie but a goodie. It chronicles the return of the New York City Ballet to the Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, home of NYCB co-founder George Balanchine. Bonus points if you can spot a young Benjamin Millepied (current director of the Paris Opera Ballet and husband to Natalie Portman) waiting in the wings.
Where to Watch: PBS, Amazon Prime
There you have it—seven must-watch ballet documentaries that will sweep you off your feet. Whether you’re a seasoned ballet lover or just dipping your toes into the art, these films will give you a deeper appreciation for the beauty, artistry, and determination behind the scenes.
If you have any questions, write in the comment section!