The past year has showcased an impressive lineup of feminist flicks, from
Lady Bird to
I, Tonya and
A Wrinkle in Time. And now Madonna is throwing her hat in the empowering ring to direct the upcoming
ballerina-inspired drama
Taking Flight.
The MGM film is based on the critically acclaimed memoir of the same name by 23-year-old, world-famous ballerina Michaela DePrince, now a soloist for the Dutch National Ballet, and her adoptive mother, Elaine. The story follows Michaela, a Sierra Leonean–American ballet dancer who spent her early childhood as an orphan during the Syrian civil war. Michaela first appeared on the public's radar when she was 14, in the 2012 documentary First Position, and she later appeared in Beyoncé's visual album, Lemonade.
"We have a unique opportunity to shed light on Sierra Leone and let Michaela be the voice for all the orphaned children she grew up beside. I am honored to bring her story to life." —Madonna
"Michaela’s journey resonated with me deeply as both an artist and an activist who understands adversity,” the Queen of Pop told Variety. “We have a unique opportunity to shed light on Sierra Leone and let Michaela be the voice for all the orphaned children she grew up beside. I am honored to bring her story to life." It's quite a statement from a boss babe who has actively spoken out about her own past struggles, including sexism, on many occasions.
As if the film's plot alone weren't moving enough, the drama will no doubt feature stunning sequences of choreography. You know, the kind that will inevitably make you regret having relinquished your tutu at age five—but least workout warriors have endless opportunities to bask in ballerina vibes at the barre these days.
Even if it's a little to late to go after Misty Copeland's job, you can still sweat like a ballerina with this workout.
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