“jeen-yuhs: A Kanye Trilogy” takes viewers through the life of musical artist and fashion designer Ye via the video camera lens of his hometown friend Coodie. The Netflix documentary was set in three acts, Vision, Purpose and Awakening, with each one released a week after the previous.
What makes this documentary so appealing is that it features footage way back from Ye as a child. Home videos show Ye rapping confidently even when he was young. The hustle, both the good and ugly, that Ye went through to make his dreams a reality is featured in this documentary. It is remarkable to see how determined Ye was to prove himself to the world and make it known that he was a force to be reckoned with. He truly takes manifestation to a whole new level, and it’s incredible to see that many of Ye’s dreams and goals actually came true.
Though the film is primarily based on the life of Ye, it also intertwines the story of the man behind the camera: Coodie. Having met Ye when he was only a young nineteen-year-old producer making beats for artists, Coodie was always intrigued by him. It is said repeatedly in the documentary that Coodie saw something in Ye that kept him wanting to document his journey. From even the very beginning, Coodie essentially dedicated a large part of his life to Ye. Talk about risk. Though Coodie was confident in Ye’s success, it didn’t take off right away. Despite much rejection and tough times, Coodie stood right by Ye’s side.
Regardless of one’s stance on the notorious artist, this documentary can inspire many. One underlying theme within the film is chasing your dreams despite adversities. It was humbling to see such a mega star that we know now at the beginning stages of his career. Audiences got to see a softer, more gentle side of Ye through the interactions and very close relationship he shared with his mother, Donda West. The loss of Ye’s mother was a time many viewers felt compassion for the infamous artist. It’s easy to see celebrities and never think of the struggles many of them endure.
Another underlying message within the film is to have confidence in yourself. Even through multiple rejections and doubts, Ye remained secure in himself and didn’t let the negative situations in his life rattle him. Instead, he turned his misfortune into masterpieces, as featured in his artistry. It’s possible that Ye’s fair share of praise from A-list musical artists, such as Jay-Z, Pharrell Williams and Jamie Foxx, motivated him to keep pushing. Afterall, he did produce many of Jay-Z’s early songs, such as “The Blueprint” album. Though accomplishing a feat like this would be a career goal for many, Ye had bigger visions for himself. The primary goal in his blossoming career was to be known and acknowledged for his rapping skills instead of just for his producing abilities. Fast forward to years later, Ye is categorized under the “greats” of rappers.
Whether or not you’re team Ye, through this documentary we can all learn a thing or two from his polarizing, one-of-a-kind “jeen-yuhs.”