Ep 9. Itzhak

Itzhak is the ninth episode of American Masters' thirty-second season. This episode is a heart-warming and insightful portrait of the living legend Itzhak Perlman, one of the most beloved violinists of our time. This one-hour documentary film takes viewers on a journey through the extraordinary life of Perlman, from his early childhood in Israel to his remarkable achievements and contributions to music.

The documentary is directed by Alison Chernick, who previously directed short films about artists such as Jeff Koons and Roy Lichtenstein. In this episode, she brings her signature style and storytelling skills to create a captivating and intimate portrait of Perlman. The film is shot with a mix of archival footage, interviews with family and friends, as well as an exclusive look at Perlman's life today.

Told in Perlman's own words and complemented by interviews with his close family, friends, and colleagues, the documentary covers his earliest experiences playing the violin in Tel Aviv and his big break on the Ed Sullivan Show. It also explores his career at Juilliard, his collaborations with other musicians including Isaac Stern and Yo-Yo Ma, his advocacy work for disabled musicians and the importance of music education, and his life as a husband and father.

Throughout the documentary, viewers learn about the many challenges Perlman faced on his way to becoming a renowned violinist, including his diagnosis with polio at age four and how he overcame the physical challenges in his path. Perlman's sheer talent and unrelenting passion for music carry him to achieve a level of excellence that few artists ever have.

The documentary also covers Perlman's personal life, including his marriage to his wife, Toby, whom he met while studying at Juilliard. The couple's deep love and support for one another is evident throughout the documentary, and their marriage is a testament to how Perlman has found happiness in both his professional and personal life.

Despite the challenges that Perlman has faced throughout his career, he remains a positive force in the world. His passion for music is infectious, and he remains committed to using his position to inspire others to pursue their dreams. By the film's end, viewers will feel like they have gained a new friend in Itzhak Perlman and perhaps even an appreciation for classical music.

Itzhak is a beautifully crafted portrait of a man who has dedicated his life to music, and the people and experiences that have shaped him. This is a must-watch documentary for any music lover or anyone who enjoys a good story about perseverance, dedication and passion. The documentary will make you laugh, cry, and be inspired to follow your dreams, whether you're a musician or not.