Ep 12. I Am Patrick Swayze

I Am is a documentary series that aims to celebrate some of the world's most inspirational humans and the impact they have made on their respective fields. Season 1 episode 12 shines a light on the late Patrick Swayze, who was a beloved actor, dancer, musician, and all-around performer.

The episode begins with a brief overview of Swayze's early life and how his love for dance and performing developed at a young age. It then delves into his rise to stardom, including his breakout role in the classic coming-of-age film, "Dirty Dancing." We hear from Swayze's wife, Lisa Niemi, and his brother, Don Swayze, as well as his friends and former co-stars about what made Swayze such a special and magnetic presence on screen.

But the episode doesn't just focus on Swayze's successful acting career. It also highlights his lesser-known talents, such as his love for music and how he even wrote and performed several of the songs in the film "Dirty Dancing." The documentary includes footage of Swayze singing and playing guitar, showcasing his impressive musical abilities.

The episode also delves into Swayze's personal life and the challenges he faced, such as his battle with alcoholism and the pancreatic cancer that eventually took his life in 2009. We hear from Swayze's loved ones and colleagues about how he dealt with these difficulties, and how his resilience and positive attitude throughout his life continue to be an inspiration to many.

Throughout the episode, we see clips from Swayze's films and performances, highlighting his incredible talent as a dancer and his dynamic presence on screen. We also hear from choreographers who worked with Swayze on various projects, discussing his willingness to take on challenging dance sequences and how his skill and dedication helped elevate those performances.

The final portion of the episode focuses on Swayze's legacy and how he continues to inspire people today. We hear from fans who grew up watching his movies and were inspired by his passion and determination, as well as from artists who were influenced by his work. The documentary leaves the viewer with a sense of the impact Swayze had on culture and how his contributions to the arts will be remembered for years to come.

Overall, I Am season 1 episode 12 does an excellent job of celebrating the life and career of Patrick Swayze. It balances his triumphs with his struggles, painting a complex and nuanced picture of a man who was as flawed as he was talented. The episode is a fitting tribute to a beloved performer who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, and a reminder of the power of perseverance and positivity in the face of adversity.