A rhetoric documentary’s aim is “to persuade the audience to adopt an opinion about the subject matter” (D. Bordwell and K.Thompson, 2006, p.348). Amy certainly captivated the raw and authentic Amy Winehouse through the people who knew her best, personal home footage and her artistry.

Prior to watching Amy, I was not so familiar with her music but was rather aware of her tampered public image in the tabloid press and satirical talk shows. Director Asif Kapadia must’ve been aware of this perception being held by the majority of the viewers, thus relied heavily on an appeal to emotions; a common trait in almost every rhetorical form documentary. The documentary followed through the highs and lows of Amy’s life with utmost respect for her and allowed us, the audience to empathise rather than just sympathise. In the midst of the fame and acclaim she’s received, she was a woman who was battling her own demon under a public spotlight that many have misjudged her

At the end of the film, I’ve grown a greater appreciation for her artistry and has also expanded my music collection. She pours her heart out through her lyrics and that soulful voice of that calibre reflect the experiences and pain she’s endured. A talent that was gone too soon, but a voice and legacy that lives on. Do yourself a favour and watch this film and then check out the soundtrack below:

Reference: Extract on ‘Non-Narrative Documentary’ film in D. Bordwell and K.Thompson, 2006, Film Art: An Introduction, pp. 348.