Visually, this is a very pretty film, just really easy on the eyes. The ballet scenes feel real and complete, authentic. This is a movie which makes me want to read the autobiography it is based upon to learn more. - Jenny, a Heartland Truly Moving Picture Award Jury Member

The movie is adapted from the best-seller autobiography of the ballet and dancer Li Cunxing. I enjoyed the movie very much, especially the ballet scenes. it is true that acting wasn't excellent and sometimes the movie was letting you hang in the air but I haven't heard of Li Cunxing before this movie, and I am planing to read his autobiography soon. Movies are not always about taking us from our mundane worlds and put us in to a fantasy world which seems like real to us, it is also about educating us.

a movie that qualifies as an experience--incredible script, character depth, plot depth, superb acting, sych beaiutiful choreography--Bruce Greenwood puts in a performance for the ages--Chi Cao who plays the adult Li should be up for multiple lead actor awards---it is not too often that i will see a movie before reading the book, but this is the exception---i can't wait to find out what the was left out of the screenplay! also the look into communist china gives an appreciation of no matter what, the usa is the place to be!!--In this day day & age to see an exceptional movie that truly is a pleasure to watch is so so rare -- a 5 star rating!!

Finally, an adult movie without the gratuitous violence, sex, and foul language- and this from a macho guy,

Good dancing, but not enough of it and not much of a story.