Written by Nik Mohan

*Paul Anka performs at "Paul Anka: His Way" post-premiere dinner. Jeremychanphotography/Getty Images).*

On September 10, 2024, legendary Canadian singer-songer Paul Anka attended the red carpet premiere of his documentary feature tited ‘Paul Anka: His Way.’ The film is helmed by John Maggio (‘The Newspaperman’), who also attended the premiere.

Anka stopped by to speak with Top Film about the feature. When asked about the process of crafting a documentary on his life and learning new things about himself at his age (80), the Canadian icon had a more than an enthusiastic response.

“It was a cathartic experience. You look at that kid [himself] from all those years ago with the squeaky voice, I didn’t know any better, I just sang what I knew,” said Anka. “But I look at it in great wonderment, because that was a time when I had a passion and the dream came true. And I knew what the fight was, and struggle, because I was this young kid who was making it that wasn’t supposed to last. When I look back on it and reflect I think; man, the fight was worth it.”

‘Paul Anka: His Way’ offers an in-depth look at the life and career of Paul Anka, the Canadian-born singer-songwriter whose work has significantly influenced the music industry over the past eight decades.

The film traces Anka's journey from his early days in Ottawa, where he was born to Syrian/Lebanese immigrant parents, to his rise as a teenage sensation with hits like "Diana." It highlights his unique position among his peers, emphasizing his talent for writing his own songs—a rarity among teen idols of his time.

Anka's songwriting prowess extended beyond his performances; he penned classics for artists such as Frank Sinatra, Buddy Holly, and Tom Jones, and even collaborated with contemporary musicians like Michael Jackson and Drake.

Critics have noted that the documentary serves as a celebration of Anka's extensive career, showcasing his adaptability across different musical eras and genres. While the film is rich in archival footage and performance clips, some reviews suggest it leans towards a hagiographic portrayal, offering limited exploration of controversies or challenges in Anka's life. Nonetheless, it provides valuable insights into his professional journey and enduring influence on the music industry.

Listen to Paul Anka perform classic “Put Your Head On My Shoulder” (November 1, 1959) on The Ed Sullivan Show:

The documentary also delves into lesser-known aspects of his life, including his early ambition that led him to New York City at 16, his business acumen, and personal anecdotes that shed light on his experiences in the entertainment world.

Following its TIFF premiere, the film has been praised for its engaging narrative and the depth of its content, making it a significant addition to the documentation of music history. Anka's continued relevance in the industry, underscored by his ongoing performances and collaborations, is a testament to his lasting impact, which ‘Paul Anka: His Way’ effectively captures.

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