From its opening statement, “Dance is not a hobby, it’s my life,” In Motion immediately establishes dance as something deeply personal to Eliot Smith. The documentary follows the fifteen-year journey of Eliot Smith Dance, offering a fascinating insight into what happens behind the performances and revealing the dedication, creativity and emotion that have shaped the company throughout its history.
Through excerpts from works including ‘MISSA’, ‘Hunter’, ‘Poppy’, and other pieces from ESD’s repertoire, the company’s artistic achievements are beautifully showcased. The clips, particularly those from Eliot’s first major work, ‘MISSA’, are visually breathtaking and highlight the exceptional skill, commitment and talent of the dancers. The documentary also reveals the physical demands of dance, capturing Eliot demonstrating movements himself before those same movements are brought to life on stage by the performers.
Director Elijah McDonnell’s simple yet effective style combines interviews, rehearsal footage and striking North East landscapes, helping to root the film firmly within the region. This relationship between place and creativity is explored through ‘Pitman’, which draws inspiration from The Pitmen Painters and reflects the influence of local history and community on Eliot’s work.
The central theme running throughout is Eliot’s personal journey, including his struggles with religion, sexuality and dyslexia, alongside his influences, particularly Martha Graham, and his early career.
With its stripped-back soundtrack and honest storytelling, In Motion leaves viewers with a powerful sense of faith, identity and self-expression.
