This is a genuinely well-made documentary that respects its subjects and delivers real insight into the world of competitive youth ballet. It's not sensationalized or reality-TV dramatic—just an honest look at talented kids working incredibly hard toward a dream.

The 93% Rotten Tomatoes score is deserved. It holds up well despite being from 2011 because ballet is timeless, and the human story of ambition, sacrifice, and resilience never gets old.

That said, it's not for every kid. If your child is already stressed about their activities or tends toward perfectionism, this might amplify those feelings. But for kids who are passionate about something—anything—this is a beautiful reminder that excellence requires work, and that the journey matters as much as the outcome.

It's also a solid antidote to participation-trophy culture without being preachy about it. These kids lose, they cry, they get back up. That's valuable.