Blaze Foley was a minor songwriter of folk/country music and this biopic makes no case for why he should be memorialized in celluloid. His music was OK, his performing was nothing special and his lifestyle travelled a typical self-destructive journey. The film doesn’t establish him as an especially great talent or even an interesting person. The most notable aspect is that it’s helmed by first-director Ethan Hawke (he’s also heard conducting an interview). Hawke managed to capture some effective performances (including non-actor Ben Dickey in the title role) and added a few interesting cinematic elements. Neither Mr. Hawke nor the rambling script haven’t offered any real reasons to appreciate this man or the movie. (Criterion Cinemas only)
(2.5 / 5)