Janis Joplin was one of the world’s most influential rock icons and a goddess of sound, but there was actually far more to her than that. She inspired a generation, breaking new ground for the female rock singers who followed. Through turbulent love affairs and addiction, one constant remained: she was committed to her music above all until her heartbreaking death at the age of 27. Janis serves as the narrator for her own life story through letters she wrote to her family, friends and lovers. Chan Marshall (Cat Power) lends her raspy southern voice to the film reading Janis’ achingly intimate letters. Amy Berg strips away Janis’ rock and roll persona to reveal the gentle, trusting, sensitive, but powerful woman behind the legend.