SARATOGA SPRINGS — Currently showing at the Saratoga Film Forum is “Amy,” a British documentary that portrays the life and career of Amy Winehouse.
Known for her profound, throaty vocals and her blend of jazz, blues and soul genres, Winehouse was a musical powerhouse. “Amy” begins by documenting her childhood, when she first began writing music at the age of 14. Her strong passion for music led to a legendary career, and eventually, to 26 music awards and 60 nominations.
The film also depicts Winehouse’s continuing battle with mental illness and substance abuse. The latter eventually ended her life in July 2011, when she died of alcohol poisoning at the age of 27.
Director Asif Kapadia conducted more than 100 interviews with Winehouse’s family and friends in order to make the film, which also shows extensive unseen footage from Winehouse’s life and career.
Also, upcoming at the film forum is “Phoenix,” a German film that takes place in Berlin after World War II. It follows the story of Nelly Lanz, a Holocaust survivor that suffered a bullet wound in the face, leaving her disfigured. After getting reconstructive surgery, Lanz no longer looks like her former self, which she uses to her advantage to find out who betrayed her to the Nazis.
“Amy” is showing Friday, Saturday and Sunday, September 18 to 20, at 7:30 p.m. “Phoenix” will be playing Thursday, Friday and Sunday, September 24, 25 and 27, at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $8 for general admission and $6 for forum members and students with a valid ID. The Saratoga Film Forum is located at 320 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit saratogafilmforum.org.
