Cecilia Trini and others with Sebastian Arrua in Auckland
Scene 2 from the short film Psychology of Tango by Christian Choi
I'm proud to present this first look preview of my upcoming documentary film, "The Psychology of Tango". In this scene, we feature one of Auckland's guest tango teachers, Sebastian Arrua, who visited this last week and gave a fantastic workshop on tango. Sebastian is dancing with Cecilia Trini, Pasion Por Tango's resident teacher and they both have a very deep understanding of what tango is really about.
I've been shooting this film now for the last 6 months, and we are currently in the editing process with a bit more shooting left to go. The film is about the lives and mentality of the tango dancer. What kind of people do this, and why? It is an evocative look at the thriving tango subculture in New Zealand. The rich dance scenes, and fascinating commentary from some of Auckland New Zealand's greatest tangureros. Stay tuned for the full release by visiting our site.
I would like to send a huge thanks to all my friends in Auckland who have graciously let me intrude on them and film their private passion. It has really been an incredible opportunity. The Argentine Tango has changed many of our lives, and even though we are all hopelessly addicted to it, we are all the better for it and so are the friends we have made along the way. Long live the real tango.
The film was shot with a Canon 5d MkII, an 85mm f1.2 L, and 16-36mm F2.8 L lenses from Canon. I'm using a Zoom H4n for sound, and a Zacuto Z-Finder.
A special thanks to Marion, Bev, and John from Pasion Por Tango, Auckland, for their liberal generosity with letting me film in their lovely dance studio on many occasions. Also Oceania lighting for their support.
Christian Choi