This biopic is based on the 2000 documentary of the same name, but much more in depth. Jessica Chastain plays Tammy Faye Bakker, the female half of the evangelical team that created an empire only to fall from grace. Andrew Garfield plays her preacher husband, who fell hardest. Since the story is familiar to anyone who lived thru it, the way it’s presented is important. In this case, the salacious, sensational angles are saved for the press coverage, while the drama puts the focus on this spunky but fragile woman. Chastain loses herself in her creation and is both touching and strong. Garfield’s is equally impressive as he effectively captures the man’s struggles with his own demons. Although the narrative seems random at times, some aspects are left out and it doesn’t probe too deeply, this character study reveals a complex personality and a remarkable performance.
(4 / 5)