Directed and produced by Samantha Stark, the documentary has left many Spears lovers upset over the treatment she received from certain media outlets as well as family members and friends. The film also deals with the #FreeBritney campaign that has gained momentum on social media.
Britney Spears Fans Saddened By ‘Framing Britney Spears’ Documentary
The documentary addresses Britney's conservatorship. Her father Jamie Spears has been her conservator for 12 years, due to concerns about her mental health. In November 2020, she lost a legal attempt to remove his control over her estate.
Fans of the pop star think the singer is being controlled against her will. This theory, also fueled by Spears’ bizarre Instagram posts, originated the #FreeBritney movement, with Spears’ lovers trying to drive attention to her case.
A fan compared the documentary to a horror movie.
“Watching the Britney Spears documentary and it literally feels like a horror film. I’m so sorry Britney. #FreeBritney,” one fan tweeted in support of Spears.
Others have pointed out how the documentary seems to be a portrayal of a late celebrity.
“I just saw someone say that the #FramingBritneySpears documentary almost seemed like it had been made about someone who had died, but in fact it was made about someone who hasn't even had the opportunity yet to just live… AND THAT REALLY HIT MY HEART!” Someone commented.
Justin Timberlake In The Framing Britney Spears Documentary
The film also examines old footage, including an interview with her ex-boyfriend Justin Timberlake.
One part of the documentary focuses on the aftermath of allegations that Spears cheated on Timberlake at the time the two singers were dating. Spears found herself at the center of a shocking campaign, fuelled by Timberlake with his music video for Cry Me a River where he catches a Spears' lookalike cheating on him.
“Watching Framing Britney Spears is a pretty easy way to feel angry about misogyny, Justin Timberlake, and how we rake every girl and young woman in the spotlight over the coals!” a fan tweeted.
“The Justin Timberlake takedown in Framing Britney Spears is the finest work of The New York Times,” was another comment.