During this year’s Hot Docs Film Festival I had the opportunity to see the cool documentary Planet B-Boy. I am a child of the 80’s and I grew with music and dance; this included hip hop and of course, break dancing (not by yours truly). This documentary brings breaking to the masses.

Director/Producer/Editor and former B-Boy Benson Lee brings us to Germany for the annual Battle of the Year World Championship. We come to know crews from around the world, including the US, South Korea, Japan, France and Germany. The filmmakers selected some very key competitors to show the intensity of the dance and the culture in which it is found. Some of my favourite crews included one from South Korea and Japan. The crew members came from various socioeconomic backgrounds and simply wanted to have others appreciate the art of breaking. I liked how the audience was able to get to know more about these B-Boys. There is a true love of dancing regardless of culture and many of the crews leave home with little to no money just to have a chance at battling with other great crews in the Battle of the Year.

Both screenings at Hot Docs were well attended. I went to the midnight screening and noticed some audience members were B-Boys and B-girls, which of course, needed to represent. The film was well received. I found myself cheering for the South Korean crew that eventually took the championship. I must apologise for not remembering their name… They were outstanding. Their routine was animated, fluid, inventive, fun and their battle with the Japanese crew was a scene to be seen. Planet B-Boy was released May 30th. Benson Lee was recently interviewed on CIUT’s Take 5 show; to listen to the interview go here. Lastly, if you’re a B-Boy, B-Girl or are one at heart, you will definitely want to see this film.