It was because of this show in the Artists' Special series I became interested in Edgar Degas and his artwork. And because of it Degas is my favorite artist.

This show portrays Degas as how I might imagine him to have actually been. The stubbornness of Degas and Marie keeps them from agreeing at times but in the end they form a friendship and a magnificent stature is also born.

I saw this on a long flight and was so impressed with it that I got it for my daughter to see. It's a great balance of history, important life lessons and entertainment. Four stars doesn't mean it wasn't good - I just think reviews are more useful if they aren't all 1's and 5's. A great film to watch with your kids.

This story is beautifully produced by the Canadian film company, Devine Entertainment, known for their commitment to excellent entertainment for older children. This biography shows Degas as a self-centered old man whose art is more important to him than people. A young ballerina, Marie, has a major influence on changing his attitudes and behavior. It begs the question, "Does being a genius give you license to treat others badly?" Our child viewers commented: "I learned about what it takes to be an artist." "I liked the way they all taught each other something. The painter taught her that if you don't make a mistake you'll never learn. She taught him not to be so grouchy and have respect for others." Most 8 to 12-year-olds will enjoy this, particularly girls, and girls interested in dance will dance with joy!

Kathryn Long, the teenage actress who is fast becoming "Canada's Jodie Foster", again plays a "heavy" in this film, the nasty older sister of the young dancer of the title. Long's range of talent is considerable, from teenage vampiress Divia in FOREVER KNIGHT to the harried young heroine Carly Beth in two HAUNTED MASK movies, and now, this historical drama allows her to shine in a non-supernatural role. Rent it or buy it especially for this talented, beautiful actress!