In Ingrid Veninger’s latest feature film, The World or Nothing, the distinction between fiction and non-fiction is so artfully stripped away that all that remains is ultimately story. Make no mistake, this is a documentary film. More importantly, however, this film is a human story; a tale of dreams and sacrifices that feels far too fantastical to be true, and far too real to not be.

Following the exploits of Cuban-born twin brothers Rubert and Rubildo Donatien Dinza, The World or Nothing chronicles the day in and day out of two brothers who act a dynamic dance duo in their quest to garner a legitimate international audience. Yet, as Cuban expats adjusting to life in Barcelona, life for Rubert and Rubildo contains its fair share of strife. Veninger’s film could be seen as a classic “rags to riches” story with a slight twist. Some films emphasize those who make it, while others focus on the tragedies of those who don’t. Very few films focus on those without a fixed answer on their attempted road to success. For those liminally caught between the end points of success and failure, very little is ultimately made of their stories.

Of particular note is the camerawork of cinematographer Leon Guallart Diaz, whose constantly moving camera follows its subjects with an unobtrusive grace that allows for the film to really feel as if it is documenting a small segment of the world. It perfectly floats along with its subjects through the world. Likewise, the brothers themselves are charismatic and engaging, and truly help propel a very explorative documentary. This is a highly recommended film that aims to explore the lives of its subjects, and ultimately delivers on its ambitions.