She is woman, hear her roar. Singer Helen Reddy became a ‘70s feminist icon with the unlikely hit song “I Am Woman.” Now, the true story of a fight to make her voice heard along with the movement that surrounded it is portrayed in the titular “I Am Woman.” The film seeks to introduce younger generations to Reddy while also inspiring those who remember the famous tune’s striking message. The biopic premiered at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival. At the time, Reddy showed her support through a live performance by granddaughter Lily Donat. Donat also performs an original song on the film’s soundtrack.
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The creative team includes two relative newcomers to the industry; both with impressive efforts in their respective filmographies. Director Unjoo Moon comes to the project after 2012’s acclaimed documentary “The Zen of Bennett.” The nuanced look into an aging Tony Bennett’s career gave Moon a chance to explore the music industry through some of its most well-known names. Screenwriter Emma Jensen carries her own prestigious credit with the 2017 film “Mary Shelley.” Much like the story of Reddy, Jensen explored the life of a famous female who would leave a lasting mark on her industry.
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Tilda Cobham-Hervey, best known for her performance in “Hotel Mumbai,” sees her recent film “Lone Wolf” debut in Australia as ‘Woman’ hits other markets. Her performance in the latter received great reviews, mostly crediting how she balances the angst Reddy felt against a drive to shine a light on an important movement. In a role that could potentially match, if not steal the film, actress Danielle Macdonald (“Patti Cake$“) brings Australian music journalist Lillian Roxon to life. The famed writer and critic played a key role in Reddy’s life, introducing her to the possibilities of music in political causes.
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The power of a song and the tumultuous fight to bring it to life unfolds in “I Am Woman.” Catch the first trailer for the film before it debuts on-demand and in theaters September 11.
