STORYLINE: In 1965, Janis Ian, a 14-year-old singer-songwriter from New Jersey, wrote “Society’s Child” about an interracial relationship. Recorded and released a year later, the song launched Ian’s career, but its subject matter ignited controversy, even resulting in death threats. The fallout plunged Ian into an emotional tailspin-and yet a few years later she emerged from the ashes with an even bigger hit, “At Seventeen.” Over six decades, Janis Ian gained ten Grammy nominations in eight different categories, saw her song “Stars” recorded by such luminaries as Nina Simone and Cher, and overcame homophobia, misogyny, and a life-threatening illness to produce an indelible body of work that continues to draw audiences around the globe. Featuring Janis Ian, Joan Baez, Jean Smart, Arlo Guthrie, Lily Tomlin, and Tom Paxton, among other icons. (IMDb)

   Over the years there hace been some fasinating documentaries focusing on the music world.  Searching for Sugarman (2012), The Wrecking Crew, 20 Feet From Staedom (2013) and Amy (2015) all to name a few.  Janis Ian: Breaking Silence is a title worthy of that list.

     I went into the film knowing nothing of her music and expecting a run of the mill fluff piece. I came of the film a fan of her as a human being and of her music. This film is the furtherst thing from a fluff piece you can find. Janis Ian embraced the tough questions asked her and responded openly, never once backing down.  I thought this made fir a balanced and far more interesting feature film.

     I had not been aware of her music prior to this film. I always love hearing about the creative process, whether it’s music, filmmaking, writing whatever the case nayve.  It was fascinating for me to hear her process over many years. Plus it interested me how some of her political songs were just her observations on life. 

    Music fans in general, fans of hers, film fans, this film is one that has a lot of appeal from many views. 

    Until next time I will see uoi at the movies.