A quick glance at films such as Afterschool, Tiny Furniture, and Martha Marcy May Marlene will reveal the distinct visual style from cinematographer Jody Lee Lipes. While his work has likely been most-seen in HBO’s Girls, he’ll be hitting nationwide theaters next summer after having shot Judd Apatow‘s next comedy Trainwreck. Before that project he helmed a new documentary, Ballet 422, and today brings the first trailer.
Premiering earlier this year at Tribeca, the film follows choreographer Justin Peck as he crafts a new ballet for the prestigious New York City Ballet, going from early rehearsals to, finally, its official debut. Judging from this preview, it looks to be an immersive dive into this world of art. Ahead of a release earlier next year from Magnolia Pictures, check out the trailer and poster below and our review here.
Cinematographer and documentarian Jody Lee Lipes crafts an intimate, fly-on-the-wall documentary offering a rare peek into the highly-guarded world of professional ballet. The film shadows Justin Peck, the 25-year old choreographer of the New York City Ballet, as he undertakes the Herculean task of creating the company’s 422nd original piece while simultaneously fulfilling his role as a Corps de Ballet member. Lipes chronicles Peck’s creative process from its embryonic stages to its highly anticipated premiere, quietly observing as he balances a roster of musicians, designers, and dancers from this famed institution. Ballet 422 is a powerful celebration of the skill and endurance of Peck and his fellow NYCB dancers—as well as those who remain hidden in the wings.
Ballet 422 opens on February 6th, 2015.