THE WHITE CROW (12A)

Oscar-nominated actor Ralph Fiennes ventures behind the camera for the third time to dramatise the rise of Soviet Union ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev and his 1961 defection to the West. Interspersed with colour-bleached flashbacks, The White Crow is a beautifully poised study of creative genius in flux and the meticulously choreographed dance sequences are on pointe. David Hare's sombre and respectful script pirouettes back and forth in time to dizzying effect. Consequently, dramatic momentum loses its sure footing early into the excessive 127-minute running time. The White Crow is a handsomely crafted biographical drama, which lacks that all-important pas de deux with the lead character's inner turmoil as he musters courage to defect. Supporting performances show similar artful restraint. At its very best, dance conveys powerful, raw emotion through movement and gesture. Too much is left unsaid despite a solid, muscular performance from Russian dancer Oleg Ivenko, who makes his feature film debut as Nureyev and speaks in both English and his native tongue. Cineworld, Chichester: Call 03453 084 620 or visit cineworld. co.uk/cinemas/chichester Cineworld, Whiteley: Call 08712 002 000 or visit cineworld.co.uk/ cinemas/whiteley Odeon, Port Solent: Call 0333 006 7777 or visit odeon.co.uk/ cinemas/port_solent/15 Reel, Fareham: Call 01329 821890 or visit reelcinemas.co.uk Vue, Gunwharf: Call 0345 3084620 or visit myvue.com/ cinema/portsmouth Chichester Cinema: Call 01243 786650 or visit chichestercinema.org