Breakdancing, the 1980s
urban performance phenomenon that went from the streets of New
York to mainstream TV and the stages of America's cultural
landmarks, faded from the U.S. scene with the turn of the
decade. But rather than disappearing altogether, the pastime
migrated overseas, gaining popularity in Europe, Asia and South
America.
Filmmaker Benson Lee catches up with breakdancing's ongoing
evolution in "Planet B-Boy," an eye-catching combination of
cultural history, performer profiles and competition footage
that should see enthusiastic response from niche audiences in
urban and specialty venues before comfortably kickin' it on
DVD.
In an efficient setup, several veteran breakdancers --
known as "B-boys" -- explain that breaking is a legitimate
dance form comprising one of the four pillars of hip-hop
culture, along with DJ-ing, rapping and graffiti art. A mix of
energetic dance moves, gymnastic techniques and referential
styles derived from movies and martial arts, breakdancing
displays an exhilarating blend of athleticism and artistry set
to hip-hop beats.
German B-boy and promoter Thomas Hergenrother describes how
youth worldwide were inspired by the exploits of their American
heroes and developed their own dance routines during the '90s,
prompting him to establish the international Battle of the
Year, held annually in Germany.
Lee then segues to presenting the four principal "crews"
profiled in the film -- Knucklehead Zoo (U.S.), Ichigeki
(Japan), Last for One (South Korea) and Phase T (France) --
characterizing their performance techniques using informal
rehearsal footage and interviews with individual members.
At the film's midpoint, the four teams converge at the
Battle of the Year after winning their respective national
championships. Extended breakdancing scenes showcase each
group's individual style as they compete for a spot in the
final competitions leading to the top prizes.
Combining performance footage, first-person interviews and
archival materials, "Planet B-Boy" pays fitting homage to both
breakers' impressive dance skills and the roots of hip-hop
culture. Agile camerawork propels the narrative at a brisk
pace, and crisp editing synchs rhythmically with the score's
propulsive beat.
Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
In Theaters 
