Georgian traditional dance - stunning in its sheer physicality - is the focus of Levan Akin’s gay coming-of-age tale that is as courageous, given his country’s anti-homosexual attitude, as it is beautiful in the way its saturated colours and depth of field suit the movements of the dance. Merab (Levan Gelbakhiani, enthralling) falls for fellow dancer Irakli (Bachi Valishvili), and their slow, tension-building coming together is reflected in the rehearsals and performances of this jaw-dropping art form.

Director: Levan Akin
Cast: Levan Gelbakhiani, Bachi Valishvili, Ana Javakishvili

Runtime: 106 mins