The 7 Best Documentaries About Janis Joplin

Nov 17, 2023 | Best Of, Celebrities, Music

Janis Joplin was one of the most influential musical artists of her time. Her powerful voice, charisma, and attitude combined with her incendiary stage performances made her an icon for generations to come. Now, fans can get a better look at the life and career of Janis Joplin by watching these documentaries about her. From biographical films to concerts and interviews, these 7 documentaries are must-watches for any Janis Joplin fan. Get ready to explore the unique life of Janis Joplin as you delve into her story through these amazing documentaries.

 

1. The Final 24 Janis Joplin

The Final 24 Janis Joplin provides an immersive and powerful exploration of the late singer’s life. Featuring interviews with those closest to her, including members of Big Brother and The Holding Company, this documentary focuses on Joplin’s final days leading up to her untimely death at age 27. It takes the audience deep into the private life and public performance of the Queen of Rock and Roll, from her early career struggles to her memorable evolution as a singer. The documentary also features rare footage from Joplin’s last concert at Harvard University before she succumbed to a drug overdose in 1970. With interviews, archival footage, and plenty of musical performances, The Final 24 Janis Joplin 360p is a must-see for any fan of Joplin’s music. Plus, the documentary makes an effort to show her humanity and struggles with fame, giving viewers an intimate look at the life of one of rock’s greatest superstars. This powerful film will leave you mesmerized and eager to explore more of Janis Joplin’s legacy.

 

2. What happened to Janis Joplin

Janis Joplin was one of the most influential female singers of the 1960s. She had a raspy, powerful voice and captivating stage presence that made her an icon. Sadly, she passed away in 1970 at just 27 years old due to an accidental drug overdose. But despite her tragic end, Janis still lives on through her music and the inspiring story of her life. To help keep her memory alive, here are five of the best documentaries about Janis Joplin that will give you an inside look at the legendary singer.

 

3. The Tortured Life of Janis Joplin

If you’re curious to learn more about the life and legacy of Janis Joplin, there are a number of documentaries that tell her story. Here’s our pick of the best documentaries about Janis Joplin:  Little Girl Blue (2015): Directed by Amy Berg, this documentary explores the complex life and times of Joplin. It features interviews with her family and friends, plus never-before-seen photos and footage of Joplin. Janis (1973): Directed by Howard Alk, this documentary is an intimate exploration of the singer’s life, featuring interviews and some archival performance footage.  Janis Joplin Remembered (1980): This documentary follows the singer’s life from her childhood to her meteoric rise in the music world and untimely death.

 

4. The Untold Truth About Janis Joplin

Thankfully, documentary filmmakers have worked to uncover the truth behind Joplin’s life, laying out her struggles and successes along with her ultimate tragedy. Here are some of the best documentaries about Janis Joplin that you can watch right now: Janis: Little Girl Blue (2015): Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Amy Berg, this documentary looks at the life of Joplin through never-before-seen footage and interviews with those that knew her best. The Wild Heart (1983): This BBC documentary looks at Janis’ early days in Texas, featuring exclusive audio recordings from Joplin’s own home. Janis: The Way She Was (1974): This documentary features performances from across Joplin’s career as well as interviews with some of the biggest names in music. Janis: A Rock and Roll Evolution (2010): This film takes a deeper dive into the unknown aspects of Joplin’s life, including her politics, artistry, and unique fashion style.

 

5. Rare Lost Janis Joplin Interview From November 23rd 1968

The music world has never been the same since Janis Joplin’s soulful singing and powerful lyrics electrified audiences around the world. Her story is one of courage, resilience and musical genius, the kind of story that can only be captured by documentary film. Here are some of the best documentaries about Janis Joplin: Little Girl Blue (2015). Directed by Amy Berg, this critically acclaimed documentary tells the story of Joplin’s life, from her humble beginnings in Port Arthur, Texas to her legendary rise and untimely demise. The film includes never-before-seen footage taken from a 1968 interview with Studs Terkel backstage at the Fillmore East.

 

6. Life & Legacy – Janis Joplin

The panel discussed how Janis’ life and music continue to touch millions of people around the world. They spoke of her tragic, yet liberating journey within her own soul and the power with which Janis embraced her insecurities and shared them with the world through her music. It was clear that Amy Berg had a profound appreciation for Joplin’s larger-than-life personality and her distinctive singing style – which the documentary captured so well. The film showcased Joplin’s talent, ambition, and resilience, but also delved into her struggles with depression and addictionThe conversation concluded with a tremendous appreciation for Janis’ legacy as an artist, activist, feminist, and rebel who continues to inspire us today. The panelists also encouraged music lovers everywhere to explore Joplin’s music and learn more about her remarkable life and impact on the world. As we all reflect on Janis’ legacy, may we continue to be inspired by her courage, resilience, and unique sound that still resonates with us today.

 

7. Janis Joplin Documentary – Biography of the life of Janis Joplin

Janis Joplin is one of the most renowned singers and songwriters of the 20th century. Her unique voice, style and attitude towards music continues to capture fans’ hearts till this day. Born in 1943 in Port Arthur, Texas, Janis developed a strong interest for music at an early age. Her career began to take off when she joined Big Brother and The Holding Company in 1966. The group released the hit album Cheap Thrills, which established Janis as an up-and-coming artist. Unfortunately, tensions between her and the band caused her to leave shortly after the release of Cheap Thrills. She then went solo and dropped I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama! in 1969. Her second album, Pearl (1971), released after her death in 1970, was an even greater success. Janis’ powerful and distinctive voice, along with her blues-influenced style of singing made her a star and legend that continues to live on through the many documentaries about her.

 

 

Read On – Our Latest Top Documentaries Lists

David B