The Company [DVD]

Director Robert Altman ('The Player', 'Gosford Park') takes an inside look at the world of ballet in this subtle, understated ensemble drama. The film, made with the full participation of Chicago's Joffrey Ballet, is based on the real-life experiences of actress Neve Campbell, a trained ballerina who performed with the National Ballet of Canada before becoming a professional actress. Campbell stars as Ry, a rising star in the Joffrey ensemble led by flamboyant director Alberto Antonelli (Malcolm McDowell). Ry is struggling with the conflicting demands of being a committed dancer and supporting herself financially as a waitress - as well as beginning a new romance with non-dancer Josh (James Franco). The film premiered at the 2003 Toronto Film Festival.