Watch Searching for the Wrong Eyed Jesus

Searching for the Wrong Eyed Jesus is a 2003 documentary film directed by documentarian Andrew Douglas. The film is an immersive experience into the southern gothic subculture of the United States that is often ignored by mainstream media. The film takes the viewers on a journey down the highways of the deep south, exploring the lives of the people who inhabit the region, their culture, and the music that they produce, which is one of the essential components of the film.

The film is a non-linear narrative that blurs the lines between reality, fiction, and folklore. The film's structure is an amalgamation of interviews, live music performances, and scenes that seem to flow naturally with no clear narrative structure. The film features a reclusive southern author and poet Harry Crews, who serves as the film's spiritual guide. Crews is often seen walking down deserted highways and rural byways, talking about his life experiences and his views on faith and religion.

The film's exploration of southern gothic culture is highly authentic, and it is not merely a portrayal of southern life but a celebration of its eccentricities. The film is an exploration of the deep south's unique culture, which is often misunderstood or ignored by mainstream media. Through its cinematography and the interviews, the film attempts to construct a portrait of the deep south that is both honest and unapologetic.

The film's soundtrack is an eclectic mix of southern blues, country, and gospel music that adds to the film's immersive experience. The music featured in the film includes performances by Johnny Dowd, David Eugene Edwards, and The Handsome Family. Johnny Dowd's performance of "Bloodhound" is the highlight of the film, and David Eugene Edwards' rendition of "The Goodbye Letter" is a standout moment.

The film's exploration of southern gothic culture is not without its critics, and some have accused the film of aestheticizing poverty and exploitation. However, the film seems to be aware of its subjectivity and its limitations, and it does not pretend to be an objective documentary. The film is not an observational documentary that seeks to provide an objective view of southern culture but is instead a subjective exploration of the region.

The film is highly stylized, and its cinematography is of high quality, with the use of color grading to convey the mood of the film. The film's sound design is also excellent, with the use of natural sounds that heighten the immersion of the viewer into the film. The use of natural lighting in the film gives it a sense of authenticity, and the film's handheld camera work creates a sense of intimacy with the film's subjects.

In conclusion, Searching for the Wrong Eyed Jesus is a unique and immersive exploration of southern gothic culture. The film's commitment to authenticity and its stylized approach create a unique viewing experience that is both engaging and informative. The film is a celebration of a culture that is often ignored by mainstream media but is rich in its traditions and is worth exploring. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in southern culture and its impact on the United States.