Singer-songwriter Janis Ian proves a gifted storyteller in 'Breaking Silence'

By David Bianculli

Published May 14, 2025 at 12:36 PM EDT

Ian had her first hit record as a teenager in the 1960s and went on to win two Grammys. A new documentary tells her life story through a combination of vintage footage and newly recorded interviews.

David Bianculli

David Bianculli is a guest host and TV critic on NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross. A contributor to the show since its inception, he has been a TV critic since 1975.

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Singer-songwriter Janis Ian proves a gifted storyteller in 'Breaking Silence'