Alison Ellwood’s “Let the Canary Sing,” a documentary examining the life and career of 80s pop star Cyndi Lauper, risks being unremarkable if not for its subject's distinctive nature. Lauper is widely recognized for her unusual style and memorable songs like "She Bop," "Money Changes Everything," and "Time After Time.” The film highlights a less familiar side of the performer—her personal life and activism. It’s refreshing to see this appealing artist given a cinematic platform. The documentary traces Lauper's upbringing, including a difficult childhood marked by substance abuse and self-destructive tendencies arising from an abusive home environment. Growing up in New York was challenging for her, but ultimately her story has a positive trajectory. Some of the most compelling sections detail Lauper’s ascent to fame, starting with her time as lead singer for Blue Angel and culminating in launching a pop revolution with a female empowerment anthem that remains relevant today. She developed a persona built on self-deprecating humor, using playful jokes and an exaggerated accent that immediately captivated audiences. Lauper was among the first artists to recognize and utilize music videos to advance her career. The film is fundamentally a celebration of her music, and Ellwood frequently incorporates Lauper’s biggest hits as background music. The opening chords of "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" transform the movie into an opportunity to celebrate Cyndi's upbeat and catchy pop songs that reflect her personality. The documentary follows a conventional format with interviews from family members, fans, managers, colleagues, and peers, creating a comprehensive picture of her life and career. Focusing on the music is arguably the most effective approach. Many may not know about Lauper’s dedication to various causes, but thankfully the film explores her continued efforts in areas like feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and diversity. She has testified before Congress and was among the first artists to ensure her videos were captioned for viewers with hearing impairments. A pioneer in her field, she championed gay, transgender, and cross-dressing individuals in her music videos. Lauper's recent work addresses sensitive topics such as abortion and abuse through her lyrics. While her artistic evolution has seen mixed reviews and financial outcomes, she’s consistently remained true to herself. “Let the Canary Sing” is a heartfelt tribute to a woman with a distinctive voice, an exuberant personality, and innate talent that will undoubtedly leave a significant mark on American music.

Source on TMDB