And Then We Danced (2020) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film is set in Georgia, a country at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The primary setting is the National Georgian Ensemble, a prestigious institution that preserves traditional Georgian dance as part of the country's cultural heritage.

• georgia location
• tbilisi
• national georgian ensemble
• setting

The National Georgian Ensemble is a prestigious dance institution featured in the film that showcases traditional Georgian dance. It represents the country's cultural heritage and operates with strict traditional values, making it a key setting where the story's conflicts unfold.

• traditional georgian dance
• ensemble
• dance troupe
• cultural heritage

The movie features traditional Georgian dance, which is an integral part of Georgia's cultural heritage. These dances are known for their passionate, athletic movements and are deeply rooted in the country's traditions and identity.

• traditional dance
• georgian folk dance
• folk dance

The film takes place in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal struggles in Georgia. The characters navigate issues of identity, friendship, and family dynamics in a rapidly changing world while adhering to traditional cultural expectations.

• contemporary setting
• modern day
• time period

The film explores three central themes: love and acceptance, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ identity in traditional cultures; passion for dance as a form of artistic expression against societal expectations; and identity struggles between adhering to traditional values and embracing one's true self.

• themes
• love acceptance
• identity
• passion for dance
• lgbtq themes

The film centers on Merab's journey of discovering and accepting his true identity and feelings in a society with strict traditional norms. The struggle for acceptance from both society and family highlights the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals face in more conservative cultures.

• lgbtq
• coming out
• homosexuality
• acceptance
• queer themes

Merab is the protagonist, a dedicated and passionate young dancer who struggles with his identity and feelings within the traditional confines of Georgian society. He represents the conflict between pursuing artistic expression and meeting familial and societal expectations.

• merab
• dance protagonist
• main character

Irakli is a charismatic and rebellious new dancer who joins the National Georgian Ensemble. His exceptional talent and unconventional approach challenge Merab, becoming both a rival and the object of Merab's affection, ultimately catalyzing Merab's journey of self-discovery.

• irakli
• new dancer
• rival
• love interest

Mary is Merab's partner in the dance troupe and his pseudo-girlfriend, embodying support and loyalty. She suspects Merab's true feelings for Irakli, representing unrequited love and the struggle for acceptance in a challenging reality.

• mary
• dance partner
• merab's girlfriend
• relationship

The film portrays the painful conflict between adhering to traditional cultural values and embracing one's true self. Merab's journey shows that self-acceptance often comes at a high personal cost but ultimately leads to liberation and potential for authentic living.

• self-acceptance
• identity crisis
• personal growth
• authenticity

Dance serves as a powerful form of expression representing the characters' deepest desires and struggles. For Merab, dancing becomes both his passion and the battleground where he must fight for his place and identity against traditional authority.

• dance as expression
• artistic passion
• dance competition

The film is set in Georgia, a country with strong traditional values and passionate cultural expressions through music and dance. The story highlights the tension between preserving cultural heritage and evolving social perspectives on sexuality and artistic expression.

• georgian culture
• traditions
• social change
• cultural tension