Based on the rags-to-renown international career of Cuban ballet star Carlos Acosta, and on his 2007 memoir No Way Home, it stars Acosta as himself, looking back over his career  in a story hitting every thematic note – family, sacrifice, maleness, black identity, exile and the transforming power of art.

The film follows Acosta - nicknamed Yuli by his father - from growing up on the streets of his native Cuba, through his time at the country’s National Dance School, to performing at London’s prestigious Royal Ballet.

Spanish director Iciar Bollaín (Even the Rain, The Olive Tree) directs with a romantic swagger, unafraid of the odd splash of kitsch; written by Paul Laverty (I Daniel Blake, The Olive Tree).

★★★★ - Sydney Morning Herald
"Dreamy portrait of a remarkable life in dance” "a perfectly formed feelgood movie”

★★★★★ - The Times
"A wholly original and deeply affecting movie" 

★★★★  - Time Out
"Superstar Cuban ballet dancer Carlos Acosta takes us through his life in unusual style in a mix of drama and dance, fiction and reality."

★★★★ - Radio Times
"[Acosta's] grace, athleticism and sheer star quality make it evident why he's worth a movie of his own." 

★★★★ - Little White Lies

★★★½  - Stuff
"Boosted by a terrific child actor, Yuli tells an engrossing yarn"

"Energetic and emotionally reflective" "electrifying performances" - The Guardian

"A story hitting every thematic note - family, sacrifice, maleness, black identity, exile and the transforming power of art - that's likely to touch a chord with audiences."
- Screen Daily