Sammy by Sammy: My Tale of the 60's

Sammy by Sammy maps ten decisive years in Sammy Davis Jr's life from 1957 to 1968, a stretch when he ruled stages and screens while the United States fought deep racial divisions. The documentary reframes his rise beyond glitzy celebrity by showing how fame pressed against a violently racist society. Through performance clips, candid interviews, and a steady stream of archival footage, it traces the arc of his artistry, his public persona, and the private choices that kept him in the spotlight. It foregrounds the tensions between his ambitions and the era's limits, highlighting the negotiations between art, romance, and politics that shaped a legendary performer during a dramatic decade. The approach is measured rather than sensational and invites audiences to form their own view of this iconic figure.

Directed by Aurore Aubin and created by Joachim Landau, Sammy by Sammy is an original documentary that leans on archival footage and interviews to reconstruct a defining decade in the life of the performer.

Box office data for this documentary has not been widely released, reflecting its niche release strategy and focus on archival material rather than mass audience reach. It likely appeared in select festivals and on streaming platforms, with modest attendance compared to broad feature releases.

Awards: The film has not received major nominations or wins in widely recognized awards circuits as of its release. Nevertheless, its use of archival era footage and its intimate portrayal may appeal to documentary enthusiasts and festival juries seeking historical perspectives on race and pop culture.

Reception and themes: The film frames Sammy Davis Jr's ascent against a turbulent era, examining how race, celebrity, and politics intersected in late 1950s and 60s America. Through archive footage featuring May Britt and appearances by political figures, it invites viewers to reconsider the costs and rewards of being a trailblazer in a divided country.