Étoile showcases the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success in the competitive world of professional ballet.
The show's portrayal of cultural representation, particularly through the character Mishi, highlights systemic challenges faced by minority artists in ballet.
Deep dives
The Premise of Étoile
Étoile revolves around two professional ballet companies, one in New York and one in Paris, both struggling with dwindling ticket sales. To rejuvenate interest in ballet, the companies decide to swap key dancers and launch a bold marketing campaign, including a documentary or reality show about their collaboration. This setup contrasts with Sherman-Palladino's previous works, focusing on the high-stakes world of professional dance rather than the more casual, character-driven narrative of her earlier series. The plot underscores the tension between artistic integrity and the need for commercial success in performing arts.
Dialogue Style and Characterization
The show's signature rapid-fire dialogue is both a hallmark of Amy Sherman-Palladino's style and a double-edged sword; it engages some viewers while leaving others feeling disconnected. Characters exhibit eccentricities that at times border on exaggerated stereotypes, which may alienate audiences unfamiliar with the ballet world. Critics point out that while the dialogue is rich and vibrant, the writing sometimes struggles to capture genuine experiences, particularly when addressing generational gaps within the industry. As a result, some scenes fail to resonate, making viewers question the authenticity of the character interactions.
Cultural Commentary and Representation
Amidst the artistic portrayal, the show touches on deeper themes of cultural representation and inclusion within the ballet industry, particularly with the character Mishi, a young Black dancer. Her struggles serve as a lens into the often invisible challenges faced by minority artists in a predominantly white field, hinting at larger systemic issues. However, the execution of these themes is critiqued for being shallow and not fully explored, as the narrative focuses more on the spectacle of ballet than the nuanced discussions of identity and access. This oversight highlights the tension between creating compelling entertainment and addressing significant cultural dialogues.
Étoile is the latest series from Amy Sherman-Palladino, the creator of Gilmore Girls and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It's about the wacky goings-on between two prestigious but struggling ballet companies, one in New York, and one in Paris. You'll see some of your favorite actors from the Gilmore and Maisel universes all speaking that signature rapid-fire, joke-dense patter. But can a comedy set in the rarified world of professional ballet find its audience – and be funny? Étoile is streaming on Prime Video.
