Tina Turner is one of the greatest survivors of pop music, dating back to the 1960s.

But now, for the first time, at age 81, the queen of R&B has opened up about her most private moments and the darkest chapters in her life in a documentary that premiered on Tuesday at the Berlin Film Festival.

The U.S.-born singer, who now resides in Europe, has emerged as an inspirational figure for many after a major come back in the 1980s.

The documentary, Tina, has not been entered in the race for any of the Berlinale’s coveted prizes, but is part of a long festival tradition of screening films spotlighting major stars of modern music.

“Tina’s story is truly unprecedented,” Dan Lindsay and TJ Martin, award-winning directors of the film, said in a statement.

Turner had given the filmmakers access to her private and extensive archive, much of which has never before been seen or heard.

Launched in 1951, the Berlinale was forced to abandon its traditional February slot and seek alternatives due to the threat posed by the coronavirus.

Berlin’s decision followed similar moves by other film festivals.

As a result, this week’s Berlinale films were being screened in a five-day so-called industry event, which is mainly open only to film industry professionals.

The Berlinale plans to present what it calls a June summer special, which represents the second stage of this year’s festival and is to be open to the wider public. 

(dpa/NAN)