The Unattainable Standard captivates from the start, following three ballet dancers from Indiana University Bloomington’s Jacobs School of Music as they prepare for the demanding Fall 2023 Nutcracker production. The film not only captures the delicate grace, strength, and emotion of ballet–it reveals a deeply humane side, exploring each dancer’s personal journey, struggles, and drive to grow. Filmed over five months (August–December 2021) with a dedicated team, the film weaves powerful storytelling with stunning visuals to uncover the challenges behind every performance. It’s more than a look at ballet—it’s an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after the curtain falls.