James D. Stern and Adam Del Deo’s “Every Little Step” works with several strands in its telling of the original 1975 workshopping and production of “A Chorus Line” and its successful 2006 revival. In the foreground is the casting of the 2006 edition, which parallels the stories told in the musical itself, as well as the myriad contemporary permutations (and lessening) like “American Idol.” But the deepest, most emotional, most haunting part of “Every Little Step” is the access granted the filmmakers to the original workshop audio tapes, when director Michael Bennett, in marathon late-night sessions, asked singers and dancers to pour out their hearts and hopes. It’s equally fascinating to hear how material was crafted into songs (composer Marvin Hamlisch offers lucid testimony) as to hear the words that became lyrics spoken aloud for the first time in a number of cases. A brisk thrill for anyone who cares about the musical, the cut-to-the-bone impact of “A Chorus Line” and for anyone seeking telling insights into creative process. 96m. (Ray Pride)
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