Is The Joy is in the Work: Remembering Ann Reinking Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2021)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

The Joy is in the Work: Remembering Ann Reinking, a standout production of 2021, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Documentary landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into This is a tribute documentary film about Ann Reinking as a teacher, mentor, and inspiration during her time at Broadway Theatre Project between the years 1991 and 2004. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "This is a tribute documentary film about Ann Reinking as a teacher, mentor, and inspiration during her time at Broadway Theatre Project between the years 1991 and 2004. Students share the stories of their experiences training with her and the knowledge she gave them in helping them grow as artists and as people. Actors, dancers, and singers from all walks of life featuring interviews from Patrick Wilson, Michael James Scott, Ashley Brown, Lorin Latarro, Matthew López, Connor Gallagher, Dylis Croman, and many more."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The presence of Sarah Jane Shanks provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by Chase Brock is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 97 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is The Joy is in the Work: Remembering Ann Reinking truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, The Joy is in the Work: Remembering Ann Reinking explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2021 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Chase Brock respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, The Joy is in the Work: Remembering Ann Reinking is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Sarah Jane Shanks or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, The Joy is in the Work: Remembering Ann Reinking is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.