2023 | USA, United Kingdom | Documentary

Let the Canary Sing

  • English - 99 mins
  • Director | Alison Ellwood
  • Writer | -
  • Producer | Wesley Adams, Lisa Barbaris, Trevor Birney, Tabitha Breese, Maggie Piazza Carroll, Gregory P. Cimino III, Sophia Dilley, Alison Ellwood, Susan Johnson, Tom Mackay, Eimhear O'Neill, Richard Story, Rebecca Teitel, Andrew Tully

STATUS: Released

This film is currently not available.   

A fast-paced and music-rich portrait of uncompromising American singer Cyndi Lauper. Her sister Ellen tells of how they sang and danced together as children. Famous pop artists such as Boy George share their thoughts on her musical talent and unique vocal sound, as well as how she has drawn attention to subjects like emancipation, abortion, racism and gender discrimination.

If you only know Ms Lauper as the girlish and irrepressible singer of her 1983 track “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” you may be surprised to discover the activist message behind this jubilant hit. Feminist and journalist Gloria Steinem describes the song as an “anthem for young feminists” in this dynamic, in-depth music documentary. And at live concerts, her global 1986 hit “True Colors” touches the hearts of thousands of people from the queer community.

This inspirational chronological life story of an eclectic singer—of soul (in a moving duet with Patti LaBelle), pop, blues, and funk—shows that it pays to stay true to your dreams, your mission and your unique voice.

Musical Talent Gender Discrimination Diversity in Music Inspirational Story Feminism