Kanye West may be the most provocative and controversial pop culture icon of our time. Public perception of the West is everywhere. Many fans praised his genius for creating challenging and unconventional art. Others see his unwavering self-assurance as unsympathetic and insulting megalomaniac. In his recent political manifesto, which went against much accepted thinking in the African-American community, some critics expressed concern that he suffered from an unregulated mental disorder. Is what we’re seeing a performance – a well-crafted performance piece designed to enhance its notoriety – or a real breakdown? “Finding…Kanye” is a portrait of inquiry, an attempt to separate men from heinous public figures.
The film begins with West’s journey through the streets of Chicago. Childhood friends described West as “vigorous and confident” as a young man, who always knew music was his destiny. As an only child, born into a family full of civil rights, he had the unwavering support of his mother every step of the way. Her death in 2007 deprived West of significant leadership influence.
Strictly focused on his art, he never intended to be the torch representative of his race or the issues that most affected their community. But that all changed after his recent high-profile embrace of conservatism. Whether he described slavery as a choice or unwavering support for President Donald Trump, his actions have confused and outraged many members of his once-loyal fan base.
But there was another section of fans and social commentators who confirmed West’s most belligerent insights. From her perspective, West is trying to empower his community and awaken it from a slavery mentality. They see the real irony in believing that all people of color should follow the same political line.
Through intimate footage and insightful interviews with many of West’s closest confidants, “Finding…Kanye” doesn’t stop at easy answers and touches on truth-revealing. Its central theme is a complex character with conflicting instincts and longings for a higher consciousness. These qualities also explain his greatness as an artist.
