The artists of the internationally acclaimed performing arts troupe Cirque du Soleil appear in this dramatic fantasy, shot in the high-definition IMAX format, which celebrates the human spirit as it follows the life of one man from childhood to old age. The Taiko Drummers perform in a sequence that represents the dawn of mankind, and a synchronized swimming team performs a water ballet that symbolizes the beginning of life. The Flounes ( Josette Dechene and Paul Vachon ), a pair of stylized clowns, guide the boy ( Nicky Dewhurst ) as he encounters the Bungees , aerial acrobats who leap from the trees in a forest. The youth ( Chris VanWagenen ) learns the importance of bravery and strength as he sees the Cuba Man ( Mikhail Matorin ) juggle with a giant metal sculpture. The performers of the Statue Act ( Yves Decoste and Marie-Laure Mesnage ) teach the young man ( Kenny Raskin ) the delicate balance of the relationship between men and women. The importance of joy and adventure are reinforced as the man witnesses the striking acrobatic performance of the Banquine. And as the journey draws to a close, the mature man ( Brian Dewhurst ) arrives at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate, ready to pass his wisdom along to a new generation. Cirque du Soleil: The Journey of Man was shot on location around the world using 3-D technology , giving the artists the opportunity to perform in spectacular natural settings and striking man-made backdrops. — Mark Deming