Janis Ian: Breaking Silence

In 1965, Janis Ian, a 14-year-old singer-songwriter from New Jersey, wrote “Society’s Child” about an interracial relationship. Recorded and released a year later, the song launched Ian’s career, but its subject matter ignited controversy, even resulting in death threats. The fallout plunged Ian into an emotional tailspin–and yet a few years later she emerged from the ashes with an even bigger hit, “At Seventeen.” Over six decades, Janis Ian gained ten Grammy nominations in eight different categories, saw her song “Stars” recorded by such luminaries as Nina Simone and Cher, and overcame homophobia, misogyny, and a life-threatening illness to produce an indelible body of work that continues to draw audiences around the globe. Featuring Janis Ian, Joan Baez, Jean Smart, Arlo Guthrie, Lily Tomlin, and Tom Paxton, among other icons.

“Bar-Kar tells this tale of love, loss, and life-altering lyricism with the same tenderness of Ian’s songwriting. Even if you’re not a fan, you might be moved to tears.”

Rolling Stone

“Few people have written about life’s growing pains more affectingly”

The New York Times

“Janis Ian’s confessional folk-pop is sensational”

The Guardian

awards & festivals

screenings

Venue City State Opening Date
GRAMMY® Museum @ LA Live - Reel to Reel Los Angeles, CA CA 10/21/2025
One night only screening followed by in-person Q&A with Janis Ian & film director Varda Bar-Kar.
Buskirk-Chumley Theater Bloomington, IN IN 10/23/2025
One night only screening followed by in-person Q&A with Janis Ian.
JCC of Greater Columbus Columbus, OH OH 11/10/2025
Philadelphia Jewish Film + Media Festival Philadelphia, PA PA 11/12/2025
One night only screening followed by in-person Q&A with Janis Ian & film director Varda Bar-Kar.
Broad View International Film Festival Edmonton, AB AB 11/13/2025
One night only screening followed by virtual Q&A with film director Varda Bar-Kar.