ABOUT THE FILM
Gloria Gaynor, music icon and disco legend, inspired millions for decades with her words “I will survive.” But she only truly understood the profound meaning of her lyrics when she hit rock bottom at the age of 65. Facing a devastating divorce to her husband and manager of 25 years, financial ruin, and spiraling health concerns, Gaynor sought to not only survive, but thrive.
With unwavering faith and the spark of new dreams, the film follows Gaynor as she embarks on an unexpectedly difficult 8-year journey to write and record a gospel album, rising up after downfall. Going behind the mic, we discover a tale of the remarkable challenges that fueled Gaynor’s music and path to stardom, and her present-day message empowering audiences to believe it’s never too late to transform dreams into reality. "GLORIA GAYNOR: I WILL SURVIVE" celebrates reinvention, the power of faith, and a magnificent second act.
ABOUT THE DIRECTOR/PRODUCER
Betsy Schechter has created and produced over 14 documentary series as well as specials and scripted programming airing on networks including NBC, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, A&E, OWN, HISTORY, MTV and MTV INTERNATIONAL, VH1, DISCOVERY, ANIMAL PLANET and OXYGEN. Betsy Schechter was nominated for an Emmy for the documentary Miracle At Trapper Creek. She won the Telly Award for her critically acclaimed documentary series Paranormal State. Prior directed the feature documentary Touched BY Elvis and the short Girl On A Bike.
DIRECTORS STATEMENT:
I have been on this journey with Gloria Gaynor since 2015. A journey that was unexpected and inspiring in the most profound ways. With the difficult times we are living through, this film has the right message at the right moment in time. My hope and Gloria's hope, through this film, is to show the world that no matter what life's challenges you face - you can not only "survive" but "thrive."