Watch Willie Nelson - Outlaws and Angels
- NR
- 2012
- 1 hr 27 min
-
5.5 (277)
Willie Nelson - Outlaws and Angels is a 1991 film that uncovers the flamboyant and often chaotic professional and personal lives of some of the most well-known country music stars of the time. The movie is directed by Steve Gebhardt and features Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Joan Severance in the lead roles. The film follows the lives of the musicians, who are all portrayed as outlaws and rebels, taking part in wild and unpredictable behavior, while still maintaining their gritty and talented musical performance on stage. They are presented as a group of people who do not like to settle down and are always on the move, both physically and emotionally. The film documents their journey in detail, offering a raw and unfiltered view of their complicated lives.
Willie Nelson, who portrays himself in the movie, is shown as an introspective and philosophical artist, someone who is well aware of the pitfalls of fame, fortune, and the price of being an outlaw. His character serves as a guiding light, someone who provides advice and counseling to his friends when they are on the brink of self-destruction. Kris Kristofferson plays Bobbie, an outlaw musician who is always up for a party and is frequently seen drinking and indulging in general debauchery. Joan Severance stars as Karen, a woman who tries to come to terms with her role as the lover of one of the outlaws, while also managing their chaotic and turbulent lifestyle.
The movie's plot revolves around the moment when each of the characters is forced to confront their inner demons and resolve their personal issues head-on. The central theme of the movie is the struggle for redemption, with each character's journey holding a different meaning and message. The story is told using a mix of flashbacks, candid interviews, and raw footage that captures the essence of the outlaw country music scene of the '80s.
The audience is treated to some iconic performances of Willie Nelson's hit tracks such as "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain" and "On the Road Again." His live performances, which were always raw and full of passion, are some of the highlights of the film. The other outlaws play their parts perfectly as well, contributing to the overall aesthetic of outlaw country music.
One of the movie's notable achievements is its ability to offer insights into the making of a specific genre of music while also touching more universal themes such as love, sadness, and loss. The movie portrays the outlaws as human beings with flaws and foibles, rather than as larger-than-life caricatures that are often typical of the portrayal of musicians in popular media. The film is a humble yet poignant tribute to these artists, who were responsible for creating a new and unique genre of music that was rooted in tales of heartbreak and turmoil.
In conclusion, Willie Nelson - Outlaws and Angels is a must-see for anyone who loves country music or is interested in learning about the outlaws that shaped the genre as we know it today. The film offers a brilliant blend of music, humor, and drama, all presented in a way that feels both authentic and relatable. It is a testament to the power of individuals who were unapologetically true to themselves, and unafraid to take risks, even if it means living on the fringes of society. If you are a fan of classic country music, this is a movie that you simply cannot miss.
Willie Nelson - Outlaws and Angels is a 2012 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.