Demi Lovato’s documentary “Simply Complicated” released Oct 17 by PhilyMack Production. Lovato’s film deals with growing up too fast in the spotlight and her struggles with substance abuse. Since Tuesday night’s release, the film has just under 7 million views.

Lovato started her acting career on “Barney and Friends” at eight years old. She went on to star in “Camp Rock” on the Disney Channel at 15. She was then admitted to rehab for the first time at the age of 18. Now at 25, Lovato has made it a priority to not only be true to herself but also to her fans. She says, “One thing I’ll never stop doing is being honest, and that’s the best thing I can do.”

In addition to the documentary, Lovato released several short videos that didn’t make the final product cut. I found it especially interesting how they added skincare and haircare videos from her beauty team.

What made the project even more significant was the fact that Lovato included friends and family. She even gives special screen time to her beauty team, who we wouldn’t normally think about, but are in her life daily.

“Simply Complicated” comes at you from the beginning and doesn’t let up. The film’s intensity is taking different spikes and lulls at perfect times. Much like Lovato’s music you see and hear the changes in timing and heaviness.

The cinematography was well done, from the song placements, montages and even when she discusses some of her demons, the settings match. The parallel that sneaks into her interview about her eating disorder is the most epic filmography parallel; she’s talking about her eating struggles while the interview is being conducted over dinner.

It’s frustrating to see news outlets only comment on her revealing her sexual orientation. There are so many other things that she shares with us, like her addiction and being sober for almost six years. She’s telling her story so others can avoid falling into the deadly trap she found herself in.

For me, the takeaway from this entire film is Lovato is like you and me; she has her ups and downs, but as she says, “I’m on a journey to see what it’s like to be free from all demons.” Getting to see the realistic perspective of such a music icon reminds us she’s allowed to be flawed. I would argue her imperfection is what makes her music so much more engaging and relatable.