Watch Heartworn Highways

Heartworn Highways is a 1976 documentary film that follows the lives and music of several country and folk musicians, including Guy Clark, David Allan Coe, and Townes Van Zandt. Directed by James Szalapski, the film captures the raw, intimate performances and daily routines of these musicians during a tour of the southern United States.

The film begins with a tune by Guy Clark, who plays a somber country ballad in his living room. Clark's music serves as a recurring element throughout the film as he performs at various venues, shares stories with friends, and works on new songs. The camera also follows David Allan Coe, an outlaw country singer, who is seen performing at a prison and spending time with his family on their farm. Despite his rough exterior, Coe reveals a softer side in his interactions with his children and wife.

Another narrative thread of the film centers around Townes Van Zandt, a legendary folk songwriter whose struggles with addiction and mental illness are on full display. Heartworn Highways shows Van Zandt performing on a porch with friends, drinking heavily, and discussing his life philosophies with the filmmaker. Despite his turbulent personal life, Van Zandt's music remains a defining feature of the documentary, with his poetic lyrics and melancholic melodies serving as a highlight of the entire film.

The film also features other musicians, including the soulful singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell and the eccentric Charlie Daniels. Crowell is seen performing at a small honky-tonk and discussing his approach to songwriting, while Daniels performs with his full band in a raucous concert setting. The film paints a vivid picture of the diverse music scene in the south during the mid-1970s and showcases the distinct personalities and sounds of each artist.

In addition to the musical performances, the film also captures the rural landscapes and communities that these musicians inhabit. Scenes of dirt roads, farms, and small towns add a sense of place to the film, and interviews with local residents provide insights into the culture and values of the south. The film's emphasis on the authenticity and grit of these communities and musicians has made it a beloved cult classic among fans of country and folk music.

Overall, Heartworn Highways is a timeless piece of Americana that captures a pivotal moment in the history of country and folk music. The film's intimate portrayal of these musicians and their lifestyles creates a portrait of a vibrant and complex culture that has endured for decades. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the musicians featured in the film or simply appreciate great music and storytelling, Heartworn Highways is a must-see documentary that offers a unique and unforgettable window into the soul of the American South.

Heartworn Highways is a 1981 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.