Educating Amy

Happy weekend everyone!
My sincerest apologies for not blogging last weekend - my normal blogging slot was taken up by a trip to the cinema.  I went to see Amy, the documentary about Amy Winehouse's life and, you know what?  I'm still thinking about it.  So, without any spoilers (promise!), I'm going to tell you what I made of it all.
I imagine that, like me, most of you are familiar with Amy's work, as well as her difficult relationship with drugs and alcohol.  Even those of you who again, like me, don't really read celebrity gossip magazines or tabloids, will have seen photos or news stories of her getting into yet another scrape after a night that went a bit wrong.  I remember seeing footage of her on the news when she was outside some court or other trying to have a quiet fag  - I say trying because, even when going through what was no doubt a difficult experience, the cameras wouldn't leave her alone.  Another photo I remember was one of her looking less than happy at her front door.  Apparently the singer didn't like paps camped up on her doorstep either.

Amy of course talks about her relationship with the press, as well as with those closest to her.  It gives in sight into what really went wrong and how, even as a teenager, she was at significant risk of falling into a pattern of self destruction.  It also shows the part other people had to play in her demise, people who I hope have come to realise how harmful their behaviour was for this young woman and have since taken action to make amends with the universe for the damage they have caused.
It's a film I reckon everyone should watch.  For me, someone who was worked closely with people who misuse drugs and alcohol and knows more than the average Jo about addiction and why/how it effects some people the way it can, it was like watching a tragedy; her fate was almost sealed from the start.  But for other people, especially people who know little about these matters, I really think it would be an education.  Hell, I think it should be shown in schools - if it is it could save lives as well as increase understanding and empathy which, in turn, could reduce the pain felt by victims (controversial word I know) when judged so unfairly by their peers, the press, and society at large.
So, my message?  Go see Amy.  And let me know what you make of it.  Just don't have a go at me if it makes you feel uncomfortable.  It probably will.