Queerguru’s Jose Mayorga reviews DYING BRIEFLY (Seré breve al momento de morir)

 

Classic dance routines turn bloody in this tale of rivalry and ambition directed by Juan Briseño.

We are introduced to Arsenio (Joan Kuri) and Sebastián (Martín Saracho), both are members of a classic dance company to which the second joined recently.  Guys are attracted to each other, their empathy shows through smiles and glances among rehearsals. 

Le corps du ballet, integrated mostly by male members,  is  aware of the feelings shared by the promising couple,  their relationship is a bit awkward for some though, as it is showed.  A cat’s fight with consequences.

The use of very  close ups and camera angles focusing in the mouths and eyes of the two protagonists allow intimacy and brings  the couple  closer  while they are enjoying outdoors,  or moving  to live in an apartment recently rented. Tenderness in in the air.

The routine  and energies at the dance school and  couple’s intimacy are disrupted  changing dramatically by the arrival of the new choreographer Mikael (Mikael Lacko).  His innovations, the unkind way he expresses his points of view are considered aggressive for some, particularly  Luciano (Nova Coronel).

The days go by, the selection of the premier danseur  and the opening night are coming… tension grows and it turns into blood. 

References to the Catholic Holy Martyr are also included in this  predictable jealousy drama where actors playing as dancers are contrived and lack spontaneity. .  The film leaves a bitter aftertaste.

 

 

The  film is available to rent or buy from TLA Releasing

 

Review by José Mayorga , Guatemala, Central America lawyer and notary public, visual artist, and editor of El Azar Cultural, lives and works in Guatemala City. Cinema lover, curious about the possibilities life brings and eager to live the experience.