The documentary film Devils Dance explores the often maligned and misunderstood world of burlesque dancing focusing on the members of the Los Angeles based burlesque troupe 'Devil's Playground', and it's founder, Courtney Cruz. Devils Dance takes you deep inside the lives of the women who are at the forefront of a nationwide burlesque revival.—Anonymous
The documentary film 'Devils Dance - The New Burlesque' is a candid, behind-the scenes looks at the sexy, steamy world of modern burlesque dancing as seen through the eyes of the Los Angeles based burlesque troupe "Devils Playground".
Shot over nearly a year, the film interweaves the personal stories of several members of the Devils Playground troupe and its leader Courtney Cruz, with the story of the neo-burlesque movement that has swept the country spawning scenes in every major city and many smaller ones.
Through anecdotal, behind-the-scenes footage, performance footage and in-depth interviews, the film shows the sometimes-unglamorous side of the burlesque business: shady venue owners, low pay, family and relationship issues and a host of other ups, downs, joys, frustrations, triumphs and tragedies. Through it all, the women of Devils Playground love what they do and work hard to be the best at it.
The films main focus, troupe leader Courtney Cruz wears many hats- promoter, producer, set builder, performer and more. She also displays her vulnerability when, in a somber moment, she recalls her strained relationship with her mother. Another story details a troupe member facing the possibility of having breast cancer without any health insurance.
Lighter moments occur involving arguments over money and a run-in with Lucas Films over a copyright infringement issue for the troupes Star Warz burlesque show.
