Let the Canary Sing: A Deep Dive into the Life and Legacy of Cyndi Lauper
In a sea of detailed and captivating pop biographies, the documentary film Let the Canary Sing (Paramount+) falls short in truly capturing the essence of the iconic Cyndi Lauper. Directed by Alison Ellwood, known for her work on The Go-Go’s documentary, the film touches on key points of Lauper’s life but fails to delve deeper into the complexities that shaped her into the rebellious artist she is known to be.
Born to Sicilian immigrants and raised in Brooklyn and Queens, Lauper’s tumultuous childhood serves as a foundation for exploring themes of feminism and rebellion in 1960s and 1970s New York. However, the film quickly shifts focus to Lauper’s music career, skimming the surface of her personal struggles and experiences.
While the documentary provides insight into the creation of Lauper’s global hit “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” it lacks the depth needed to truly understand her evolution as an artist. From writing the musical Kinky Boots to advocating for close-captioned music videos, Lauper’s impact goes beyond her chart-topping success.
Yet, as the film progresses, it becomes apparent that Lauper’s later work may not hold the same allure as her earlier endeavors. The documentary hints at a disconnect between the youthful rebel and the seasoned artist, leaving viewers with a sense of missed opportunity in fully exploring Lauper’s journey.
In the end, Let the Canary Sing offers a glimpse into the life of a music legend but falls short of painting a complete picture of Cyndi Lauper’s enduring legacy. As fans and critics alike yearn for a more in-depth portrayal of the icon, it remains to be seen if future projects will shed light on the true essence of this trailblazing artist.