Watch The Capote Tapes

The Capote Tapes is a 2019 documentary film that explores the life and work of Truman Capote, one of the most well-known American writers of the 20th century. The movie is directed by Ebs Burnough and it features exclusive, never-before-heard interviews with Capote's friends, lovers, and confidants. The documentary is a fascinating portrait of the writer's life, from his humble beginnings in Alabama to his meteoric rise to fame as the author of works such as Breakfast at Tiffany's and In Cold Blood. The movie delves deep into Capote's personal life, exploring his relationships with famous figures like Tennessee Williams and Jackie Kennedy, as well as his well-publicized struggles with addiction and loneliness.

The Capote Tapes is built around a series of candid recordings made by Capote's longtime friend and collaborator, journalist Dotson Rader. In these tapes, Capote speaks candidly about his life, his work, and the people he loved and loathed. The movie combines these revealing recordings with interviews with Capote's contemporaries, including Kate Harrington, a fashion editor who was one of Capote's closest confidants.

Throughout the film, the audience is treated to a wealth of amazing archival footage, including interviews with Capote himself, as well as clips from his various television and film appearances. The documentary also features wonderful illustrations and animations that help to bring Capote's words to life.

The Capote Tapes is a deeply moving and insightful film that offers an intimate look at one of America's most important writers. Through rare footage and gut-wrenchingly honest interviews, the documentary brings to life the complex and enigmatic figure of Truman Capote.

The documentary paints a nuanced and complex picture of Capote, showing us a man who was both brilliant and tortured, gifted and deeply flawed. While Capote was celebrated during his lifetime for his literary achievements, the movie does not shy away from exploring the dark side of his personality, including his struggles with alcoholism, drug addiction, and depression.

One of the most powerful aspects of The Capote Tapes is the way it explores the tensions between Capote's desire for fame and his need for intimacy and connection. The movie shows us how Capote used his celebrity to gain access to some of the most elite circles in American society, but also how he struggled with feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Although the film is centered around Capote, it is really a story about friendship and the importance of human connection. Through interviews with several of Capote's close friends, such as Kate Harrington and Dotson Rader, the documentary shows us how Capote was able to create a tight-knit community of friends and supporters.

However, The Capote Tapes also explores the darker side of these relationships, showing us how Capote was often manipulative and controlling, using his charm and wit to get what he wanted from those around him.

Overall, The Capote Tapes is an engrossing and illuminating film that provides a window into the complex and fascinating life of Truman Capote. Through stunning archival footage, intimate interviews, and powerful illustrations, the documentary captures the essence of Capote's singular voice and his profound impact on American literature and culture. Whether you are a longtime fan of Capote's work or simply curious about this iconic figure of American letters, The Capote Tapes is a must-see film that will capture your attention from beginning to end.

The Capote Tapes is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 64.