From a filmmaker’s point of view, it’s always advantageous when an artist’s defining work encapsulates their life and career journey. Consider a film about Johnny Cash titled “Walk the Line,” a Tina Turner biopic named “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” or an Aretha Franklin feature aptly called “Respect.” The upcoming Bon Jovi docuseries, “Thank You, Goodnight,” is another example of this naming strategy, steering clear of titles like “You Give Love a Bad Name.”
In the same vein, “Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive” follows this notable tradition, shedding light on the challenges faced by the iconic singer as she transitions from her disco heyday to a new chapter as a gospel artist. Betsy Schechter’s documentary delves into the hurdles—be it professional, romantic, or physical—that reshaped Gaynor’s hit dance track into an anthem of empowerment for women, the LGBTQ+ community, and most significantly, for Gaynor herself.
The narrative unfolds as Gaynor, now 40 years into her career, embarks on recording her inaugural gospel album. Amidst a successful career marked by a Grammy win for “I Will Survive” and numerous albums and tours, Gaynor grapples with past trauma stemming from her ex-husband’s influence and her own inner struggles. Despite her current relationship with manager Stephanie Gold, traces of this trauma linger, manifesting in her apprehension towards this new musical direction.
While the film delves into Gaynor’s personal challenges, particularly her battle with a spinal injury and tumultuous past, the focus remains on her gospel music endeavors. Schechter captures the five-year journey of creating Gaynor’s Grammy-winning album “Testimony,” aiming to provide a redemptive arc for the renowned artist. However, the documentary’s intimate perspective may overlook the broader impact of Gaynor’s legacy within the music industry, lacking insights from experts or industry insiders.
Although the film emphasizes Gaynor’s comeback narrative and quest for validation in the gospel genre, there’s a missed opportunity to explore the depth and breadth of her musical contributions. Beyond her iconic hit, Gaynor’s collaborations, genre-defining tracks, and cultural influence warrant further exploration. While the documentary showcases poignant moments, such as a heartfelt tribute in Spain and Gaynor’s personal milestones, it primarily resonates with dedicated fans rather than a broader audience.
In the saturated landscape of music documentaries, “Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive” stands out for its portrayal of resilience and self-discovery. It underscores a crucial lesson embodied in Gaynor’s anthem: self-love precedes all other forms of affection.