Extreme Combat: The Dancer and the Fighter

Plunged into a realm of ultra-masculinity, Akram faced his fascination with aversion and physicality of violence by spending time with three British professional mixed martial artists in the weeks leading up to career defining fights. Digging into what extent violence is intrinsic in human nature and in himself, he drew on this to create a dance piece to accompany one of the fighters on his walk out to the ring.

Directed by Christian Collerton, Extreme Combat: The Dancer and the Fighter leans on a strong ensemble — Akram Khan — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2020.