Did you know that dance has the power to transcend boundaries and challenge societal norms?
Well, in the captivating world of And Then We Danced, this notion takes center stage as we witness the extraordinary journey of Merab and Irakli.
This 2019 Georgian drama film, directed by Levan Akin, delves deep into the complexities of their relationship, set against the backdrop of a conservative society.
As the credits roll, you may find yourself yearning for a deeper understanding of the film's ending and the profound story it tells.
Fear not, for we are here to unravel the mysteries and emotions that lie within And Then We Danced.
So, let's dive in and explore the captivating tale that will leave you breathless and inspired.

Key Takeaways
- The ending of "And Then We Danced" showcases Merab's growth, rebellion, and exploration of desire.
- The final dance sequence represents Merab's transformation as a dancer throughout the film.
- Merab's rebellion against societal norms is expressed through the language of dance.
- The ending explores the tension between tradition and personal freedom.
- Georgian dance symbolizes tradition, cultural identity, and the struggle between conformity and self-expression.
Merab's Journey of Self-Discovery and Acceptance
The movie "And Then We Danced" follows the journey of Merab, a young Georgian dancer who is trying to find his place in the world of traditional dance while also exploring his sexuality. Throughout the film, Merab struggles with his identity as a dancer and as a gay man.
However, in the end, he is able to fully embrace both parts of himself and perform a passionate dance with his partner, Irakli.
This journey of self-discovery and acceptance is a central theme of the movie, and the ending reflects Merab's growth and transformation.
Breaking Free from Tradition
Merab's journey in "And Then We Danced" is also about breaking free from the strict traditions of Georgian dance and finding his own voice. In the final scene, he performs a contemporary dance that is a departure from the traditional dances he has been trained inches This act of rebellion against tradition is a powerful statement of Merab's individuality and his refusal to conform to societal expectations.
The ending showcases his courage to challenge the norms and pursue his own path.
Hope for the Future
Despite the challenges he has faced, Merab ends the movie with a sense of hope for the future. His final dance is a declaration of his own existence and a promise to himself and the audience that he will continue to dance, to live, and to love.
This sense of hope is significant because it shows that even in a society that may not fully accept him, Merab is determined to live his life authentically and pursue his passion.
The ending leaves the audience with a feeling of optimism and the belief that change is possible.
Georgian Society and Homophobia
The movie "And Then We Danced" challenges societal norms and expectations by portraying a romance between two male dancers in a conservative Georgian dance company. The film sheds light on the homophobia that exists in Georgian society and the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in such environments.
From production to release, the film itself faced threats and opposition due to its exploration of homosexuality in a conservative society.
Despite these challenges, the director, Levan Akin, spoke about the hope he sees in a new generation that is more accepting and open-minded.
The Emotional Impact of the Ending
The emotional impact of the ending of "And Then We Danced" on the audience can vary, as it is a subjective experience. The film is described as an intimate, devastating, and euphoric love story that explores themes of self-discovery, growth, and non-romantic relationships.
The ending is likely to evoke a range of emotions, such as catharsis, empathy, or even frustration, depending on how the story unfolds and resolves.
Given that the movie is described as both a personal expression of freedom and an oppressive enclosure, the ending may leave the audience with a mix of emotions, including a sense of hope, closure, or bittersweet realization.
Irakli's Role in Merab's Journey
Irakli is a key character in "And Then We Danced" and plays a significant role in shaping Merab's character and his journey towards self-discovery and acceptance. Irakli is a newcomer to the National Georgian Ensemble, where Merab is a member.
Initially, Merab is jealous of Irakli's talent, but the two start rehearsing together and develop a romantic connection.
However, in the end, Irakli declares that he is marrying his girlfriend from back home.
While Irakli's role in the ending is not explicitly stated, his presence throughout the film is significant in shaping Merab's character and his journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.
Subverting Traditional Gender Roles and Expectations
The movie "And Then We Danced" challenges traditional gender roles and expectations in several ways. It portrays a queer romance between Merab and Irakli, breaking the traditional expectation of heterosexual relationships.
The film also breaks stereotypes through dance, showcasing it as a form of self-expression and liberation for Merab.
The ending of the movie is a defiance against societal norms and expectations, as Merab and Irakli choose to be together and express their love openly.
The film offers a powerful and tender exploration of love and self-acceptance in the face of adversity.
A Powerful and Poignant Ending
The final shot of "And Then We Danced" is significant because it shows Merab and Irakli dancing together in a nightclub, surrounded by other people. This is a stark contrast to the rest of the film, where their relationship is kept hidden and they can only dance together in secret.
The final shot represents a sense of liberation and acceptance, as they are able to express their love for each other openly and without fear.
The fact that they are dancing in a nightclub also symbolizes a break from tradition and the conservative values that have been a major theme throughout the film.
Overall, the final shot is a powerful and emotional conclusion to the film, as it shows the characters finally able to be themselves and express their love for each other in a public setting.
Love and Acceptance Transcending Competition and Rivalry
The ending of "And Then We Danced" challenges the notion of competition and rivalry by showing that love and acceptance can transcend these constructs. Merab and Irakli, who were initially rivals competing for a spot in the main ensemble, develop a romantic relationship that defies the norms of their conservative society.
The film portrays the tension between traditionalism and modernity, as well as the struggle of LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves in a society that does not accept them.
The final dance sequence, which features Merab and Irakli dancing together, is a powerful representation of their love and acceptance of each other, despite the societal pressures that would keep them apart.
The film ultimately suggests that love and acceptance can overcome the barriers of competition and rivalry, and that individuals should be free to express themselves and pursue their passions without fear of judgment or discrimination.
The Importance of Self-Expression and Individuality
The ending of "And Then We Danced" suggests a powerful message about the importance of self-expression and individuality. Through Merab's self-discovery and subversion of tradition, the film becomes an ode to individuality and a celebration of queerness.
The film's stunning denouement is one of the most powerful scenes in recent queer cinema.
In this scene, Merab is seen dancing in a moment of blissful self-expression, bathed in golden light, to Robyn's "Honey" with a papakha perched atop his curls.
The conflict between the individual and the state is also expressed throughout the film, with the rehearsal director declaring that there is no place for individuality in dance.
Ultimately, the film suggests that self-expression and individuality are essential to living a fulfilling life.
Possible Interpretations of the Ending
The ending of "And Then We Danced" is open to interpretation, and viewers may have different opinions about what happens to the characters. Some possible interpretations include:
- Hopeless romantic ending: Merab and Irakli join a dance ensemble in a different country, finding happiness together.
- Bittersweet ending: The final scene may be a dream or fantasy, suggesting that the characters cannot be together in reality.
- Open-ended ending: The future of the characters is left uncertain, allowing viewers to imagine their own outcomes.
Overall, the ending of "And Then We Danced" leaves room for interpretation and discussion, adding to the depth and impact of the film.
"And Then We Danced" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and the tension between tradition and personal freedom. The ending of the movie showcases the growth and transformation of the protagonist, Merab, as he embraces his true self and pursues his passion for dance. The film challenges societal norms and expectations, particularly in the context of a conservative Georgian society. It highlights the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and the power of love and acceptance to overcome barriers. The ending leaves the audience with a sense of hope and a deeper understanding of the importance of self-expression and individuality. "And Then We Danced" is a must-watch for its powerful storytelling, stunning dance sequences, and exploration of complex themes.
Frequently asked questions

1) Who are the main characters in "And Then We Danced" (2020)?
The main characters in "And Then We Danced" (2020) are Merab, played by Levan Gelbakhiani, and Irakli, played by Bachi Valishvili.
2) What is the central focus of the film?
The central focus of the film is the relationship between Merab and Irakli, as well as the challenges they face in a conservative society.
I have imagined continuations for 'And Then We Danced'. If you are interested in knowing what will happen, check the link below or in the sidebar.

Reflections on the topic at hand
So, you've just finished watching And Then We Danced, huh? What a journey it was! I bet your mind is buzzing with thoughts and emotions, trying to make sense of everything that unfolded on the screen. Well, my friend, let's dive into the ending and story together and see if we can unravel some of the mysteries.
First things first, let's talk about Merab and Irakli. These two characters, played brilliantly by Levan Gelbakhiani and Bachi Valishvili, captured our hearts and took us on a rollercoaster of emotions. Merab, with his burning ambition and dedication to dance, and Irakli, the enigmatic rival with natural talent, formed the core of this film. Their relationship was complex, to say the least, and it left us questioning the boundaries between friendship and desire.
But what about that ending? It was both beautiful and heartbreaking, leaving us with a mix of emotions that are hard to put into words. As Merab and Irakli danced together, their bodies moving in perfect harmony, we couldn't help but feel the weight of their unspoken desires. It was a moment of pure vulnerability, a fleeting connection that transcended societal norms and expectations.
And that's where the power of this film lies – in its ability to challenge the conservative society it portrays. Georgia, with its deep-rooted traditions and conservative values, becomes a character in itself, shaping the lives and choices of its inhabitants. Merab and Irakli's struggle to express their true selves in such an environment is a universal theme that resonates with anyone who has ever felt trapped by societal expectations.
As the credits rolled, we were left with a lingering question: What happens next? Will Merab and Irakli find the courage to break free from the chains that bind them? Or will they succumb to the pressures of their society? It's a thought-provoking ending that invites us to reflect on our own lives and the choices we make.
In the end, And Then We Danced is more than just a movie. It's a powerful exploration of identity, desire, and the courage to be true to oneself. It challenges us to question the norms that govern our lives and to embrace our own unique journey, no matter how difficult it may be.
So, my friend, as you ponder over the ending and story of this remarkable film, remember to embrace your own dance. Dance to the beat of your own heart, and never be afraid to break free from the chains that hold you back. After all, life is too short not to dance.
AND THEN WE DANCED - Official U.S. Trailer
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Links and references
If you want to know the complete story, visit this article:
And then we danced movie / synopsis + complete story - RO1 2020
If you are looking for a different ending, this is the article for you:
And then we danced movie / alternative ending - RO1 2020
Or maybe you haven't watched it and are trying to figure out if the movie is for you:
Unveiling the hidden world of passion and rivalry, a dance that transcends boundaries - RO1 2020
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