Dear...

Dear... is a notable and inspiring documentary series produced by Apple TV+ in 2020. The unique structure of the series brings its featured subjects to life in an unexpected way, weaving together biography and inspirational messaging into a cinematic letter format.

The one-of-a-kind series, consisting of ten episodes, ingeniously uses the simple but potent device of a letter, written by a fan, to frame a deep dive into the life, work, and social influence of an array of illustrious individuals. A compelling format helps the show strike the perfect balance between highlighting the importance of individual lives and the incredible influence of the featured public figure.

From acclaimed celebrity figures to influential leaders in various fields, everybody profiled in Dear... has made groundbreaking achievements that continue to shape the world today. Each episode focuses on one high-profile person, including international personalities like Oprah Winfrey, Gloria Steinem, Spike Lee, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Big Bird, Stevie Wonder, Aly Raisman, Yara Shahidi, Jane Goodall, and Gitanjali Rao.

The series draws much of its emotional resonance by focusing not just on these well-known figures, but on the people profoundly affected by their work, the "fans" whose lives have been changed through connection with these iconic figures. Each episode provides space for the triumphs, struggles, successes, and failures of the profiled individuals, achieving an immersive, multifaceted portrait of their life journeys and the deep impacts they've made on others.

Dear... reveals the ways in which these famed individuals have impacted society, often subtly and behind-the-scenes, beyond their celebrated works. It emphasizes how the trailblazers in various sectors have used their platforms to effect change and inspire people across geographical, cultural and social boundaries. Each subject’s impact is portrayed through the eyes of people around the world who have been positively influenced by their work.

The series stands out for its creative storytelling format that combines interviews, home movies, photographs and archival footage to unearth compelling personal stories while beautifully stringing together a life event collages of the subjects. What's particularly notable is the innovative animation techniques used to visually bring each fan’s letter to life, creating an absorbing, emotionally rich tapestry that skillfully juxtaposes the life of the subject with the voices of the fans.

Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker, R.J. Cutler, the series is infused with a persuasive and authentic blend of empathy and respect, humanizing these widely recognized figures while celebrating their massive impact. The show presents an impressive array of unique voices, each episode building to a chorus of ordinary and extraordinary voices telling their personal stories, initiating heartfelt dialogues about love, resilience, equality, environmental conservation, and much more.

Each episode of Dear... acts as a kind of ode, delivering a heartfelt tribute to the important figures it revolves around, their life's work, their impact on society, and the personal connections they've forged with the public. As the series progresses, it becomes evident that the chosen format is eloquent and powerful, each letter acting as a springboard into profound explorations of the lives of the chosen personalities, and the profound contributions that they've made to society and culture.

Dear... goes beyond being a mere biography or documentary series. Instead, it serves as a tapestry of human experience, a heartfelt homage to influential figures, and a poignant parade of personal stories. It manages to balance serious topics and light-hearted moments, making it a suitable series for mature and youthful audiences alike.

In the end, while the series pays homage to the extraordinary lives and deeds of its eclectic array of subjects, it is no less about the lived experiences of ordinary people whose lives these personalities impacted. The show underscores the idea that even figures of great prestige are shaped by and interact with the world just like everyone else; they are not separate from it but part of it.

Overall, Dear... is a beautifully designed, deeply impactful and universal series that successfully captures the impact that one person can have on many others, building an inspiring portrait of ten amazing individuals and their significant contribution to society. Unique in its approach and effective in its execution, the show offers viewers an irresistible blend of biography, visual storytelling, and moving personal stories. It's a testament to the power of influence and the lasting impact of positivity, a must-watch for anyone seeking a dose of inspiration and reminder of our shared human experience.