Demi Lovato releases the first two parts of her harrowing documentary about her overdose, Dancing with the Devil.
Demi Lovato’s highly anticipated tell-all documentary is here and we are… well…. shocked. Focusing on her traumatic overdose in 2018, the “Sorry Not Sorry” singer gives us vulnerability, truth and unparalleled bravery as she unveils the darker side of her former world. The first two instalments of this four-part documentary were released yesterday and act as a detailed narrative surrounding the almost-fatal events of July 24th 2018. With two more episodes set to be released next week, this is only the beginning of a truly intense story.
What: Parts 1 and 2 of the Dancing with the Devil documentary – entitled Losing Control and 5 Minutes from death – offer us an insight into the events that resulted in Demi’s overdose. Within the first few minutes of episode 1, we hear the words of Dianna De La Garza (Demi’s mother) claiming “it is only going to get better from here,” along with the statement ‘1 month before overdose’ flashing across the screen. This instantly allows for tensions to mount. Former employees, family members and close friends provide their personal recollections of the events that unfolded and it is quickly revealed that Demi’s addiction involved drugs as strong as crack cocaine and heroin. Very graphic details of the singer’s overdose are given, including the multiple strokes and heart attack she consequently endured as well as her doctor and relatives explaining the various gruelling procedures that were carried out in order to save her life. We are also given the news that while Demi was heavily intoxicated with a lethal amount of drugs, her dealer took advantage of her, which is made all the more horrifying as we are played security footage of him exiting her house and, as Demi describes it, leaving her ‘for dead’. As well as the many personal testimonies of those close to her, we are offered various animated sketches that allow for us to witness a recounted version of that day. Where: Set amidst the glitz and glamour of LA and the celebrity-filled hidden hills, the documentary follows a lot of Demi’s life at home as well as her Tell Me You Love Me tour. Star of the Show: Demi. Period. Her raw and uncensored approach to telling her story is captivating and a true display of bravery. Who To Watch it with: While most of us grew up watching Demi on the Disney Channel, making this the perfect watch for you and your gals, lockdown is sadly not permitting any socialising right now. But, as long as you have given your mum a bit of background on Demi’s journey, she could be a good watching partner. This is definitely a documentary that will have you thinking and deeply in your feels, so we’d suggest turning off your phone, curling up with a blanket and zoning out. Standout scene: The opening scene of episode 2 hits very hard. We see Jordan Jackson, former assistant to Demi, recount the moment she found the star’s unconscious body as her narrative plays over sketches that detail the events of the morning of July 24th. Both gripping and sombre in nature, the scene has a lasting impact. Watch if: This is a must for anyone and everyone. Given that many of us feel as though we have grown alongside the star on her journey to fame and success, this documentary is a very thought-provoking display of the trials and tribulations that come with being in the spotlight. Not only this, but the interviews act as a frank and real conversation on addiction and mental health. The open discussions throughout challenge the stigma attached to these issues, allowing it to act as a very interesting social comment. Don’t watch if: The documentary itself comes with trigger warnings. Drugs, abuse and addiction are just some of the topics that are discussed openly and graphically throughout. While Demi’s raw and frank nature is something that makes this documentary so gripping, it most certainly is not a lighthearted watch, especially if these are matters that may be upsetting to you.
