Classics: A Review of White Nights By Lauren Ennis

 Two global super powers, a worldwide disinformation campaign, and a coveted defector all add up to....a real toe tapper. The 1985 drama White Nights combines political intrigue with the power of dance to relate a unique thriller that never misses a beat. Through its original approach the film breathes fresh life into the Cold War drama while offering insights that remain sharply relevant today. For a thrill ride that will have you humming along with its heroes hit the dance floor with White Nights.

You can dance if you want to you can leave your friends behind

The story begins with Soviet defector and ballet sensation Nikolai Rodchenko touring the globe in his latest production. When his flight to Japan is forced to make an emergency landing in the USSR he suddenly finds himself stranded in the country that he vowed never to return to. Rather than executing him as a traitor, the KGB becomes determined to repatriate him and use him as part of a propaganda campaign against the West. They then enlist Nikolai's former lover, Galina, to tempt him into remaining in Russia and blackmail American dancer turned defector Raymond into spying on him. Over time the two dancers form an unlikely friendship and resolve to put on one final show that will keep even the KGB guessing. The duo are then pitted in a race against time as they struggle to find a way past their handlers and beyond the Iron Curtain.

Through its focus upon defection both to and from the U.S. the film explores vital questions surrounding the meaning of freedom, patriotism, and equality. While numerous films have chronicled the defection of Soviets to the West the reverse has rarely been explored. Through its depiction of Raymond's journey from self-described 'American patriot' and military veteran to defector the film explores the meaning of patriotism and whether it is possible to feel pride in and loyalty to a nation that you disagree with. The portrayal of his disillusionment in the face of discrimination and trauma also highlights the racial and political divisions in American society, which the U.S. continues to grapple with today. One of the film's greatest successes is its contrasting depiction of the lure of the equality and prosperity that Marxism promises and the oppressive, poverty-stricken, reality that dominates Marxist societies. While the film's depiction of Raymond's past offers insight into what draws people toward Marxism, its portrayal of both Raymond and Nikolai's present paints a stark portrait of why people flee Marxist nations. Through its exploration of Nikolai's efforts to reconcile with the past and country that he left behind the film poignantly depicts both the oppression of life under communist rule and the cost of freedom. In an era in which Marxist teachings are creeping into American schools, workplaces, and even the U.S. government the film offers a vital warning for patriots and dissidents across the nation and serves as an apt call to action. For a retro thriller that remains both refreshing and relevant put on your dance shoes and get into step with Raymond and Nikolai in White Nights.

I have a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore...

The film transports viewers to the heart of Soviet Russia thanks to the exemplary work of its cast. Jerzy Skolimowski personifies the menace and brutality of the KGB as the brutal Colonel Chaiko. Helen Mirren infuses  Galina with grit, cynicism, elegance, and moral courage in a performance that leaps off of the screen. Isabella Rossellini adds depth and nuance to her luminous portrayal of Raymond's devoted Russian wife, Darya. Gregory Hines and Mikhail Baryshnikov dominate the screen in their roles as dueling defectors Raymond and Nikolai. Hines captures the volatility and torment of disillusioned Raymond, while still conveying warmth and humor. Baryshnikov proves himself to be as magnetic on the screen as the stage in a tour de force performance that eerily mirrors his own story. Together the two make for a winning team sure to get your toes tapping.

White Nights serves up white hot thrills and electrifying choreography that could heat up even the coldest Russian night. Through its refreshingly original script the film brings the political and personal conflicts that marked the Cold War to vivid life while offering a vital warning for the present. The uniformly engaging performances are infused with a depth and emotion that is certain to leave viewers rooting for its heroes on both sides of the Iron Curtain. For a show-stopping thriller join Gregory Hines and Mikhail Baryshnikov in White Nights.

I've got those happy feet give them a low down beat and they begin dancing