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Céline Dion offers an intimate and sincere look at her life, career, battle with illness, and enduring passion for music and her audience in a moving and revealing documentary.
The documentary I Am: Céline Dion, available on Prime Video from June 25, provides an intimate and sincere look into the life of the internationally renowned Quebec singer. Directed by Irene Taylor, the film traces Céline Dion’s exceptional career while candidly addressing the health challenges she has faced for several years.
Stricken with Stiff-Person Syndrome (SPS), a rare and incurable autoimmune disease, Céline Dion had to put her career on hold in December 2022. Despite the severe pain, difficulty moving, and spasms caused by the illness, the 56-year-old star demonstrates remarkable resilience. “When life throws a challenge at you, you have two choices: tackle it head-on or not,” she confides in the documentary.
By sharing her battle with the illness, Céline Dion hopes not only to encourage those affected by the same syndrome but also to raise public awareness of this little-known condition. At the film’s premiere in New York, she emotionally declared, “It’s hard to be here, but at the same time, I’m very moved. I feel that I still have a lot of support and love, and I hope this documentary will help because it has helped me a lot, even though it’s a lifelong battle, one day at a time.”
The documentary offers privileged access to Céline Dion’s life, both on stage and in her private moments. Archival footage of her breathtaking performances is juxtaposed with everyday moments with her children and dogs. The film does not shy away from the difficult moments, showing the singer in the midst of a crisis, immobile and unable to speak. However, it is above all her joy for life, humor, and unconditional love for her family, friends, and music that shine through.
Céline Dion has always felt that she owes her best to her fans, who do not hesitate to spend significant amounts and wait for hours to hear her sing. At the documentary’s premiere, she shared how deeply touched she was by a fan’s message: “We are not here for the apples, but for the apple tree.” This statement perfectly illustrates the unwavering attachment her admirers have for her, loving and supporting her beyond her performances.
By revealing herself with authenticity in this poignant documentary, Céline Dion once again proves her strength of character and commitment to her art and audience. Despite the trials, she remains hopeful and firmly asserts, “My passion for the stage will never die.” An inspiring message that resonates as a promise for all those who admire and support her in her fight.
With AFP
