An in-depth exploration of the late artist’s life through his most famous song, ‘Hallelujah’

This Friday sees the UK and Ireland release of a new documentary about the late Canadian singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen, as told through the lens of what is arguably his most well-known song. Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song comes shortly before what would have been the bard’s 88th birthday on 21 September.

Directors Dan Geller and Dayna Goldfine have been “deep, passionate fans since we saw him step on a stage in 2010”, as Goldfine told Craig Charles on BBC Radio 6 Music and when the pair submitted their request to make a film back in 2014, Cohen wryly replied: “You have my tacit blessing, now leave me alone.”

The film features rare interviews with Cohen that date back to the 1970s, journals that span the near-decade he spent writing ‘Hallelujah’, photographs and performances. There are also interviews with numerous other musicians and actors, including Judy Collins, who’s responsible for first getting Cohen to perform, Rufus Wainwright and Nancy Bacal.

“Leonard spent his entire life working very deeply on his spiritual journey and on himself,” said Goldfine, “which gives me hope to keep working on myself and, I hope, audiences get that same wonder and hope.”

By Danielle Goldstein

Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song is out Friday 16 September throughout the UK and Ireland. Find out more at tickets.hallelujahfilm.com