BLAZE

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Director Ethan Hawke does justice to the memory of Texas Outlaw Blues singer/songwriter Blaze Foley in this transfixing biopic.

Co-written with Blaze Foley's widow Sybil Rosen, Ethan Hawke employs a satisfying elliptical story form. The method proves especially practical in keeping the complex narrative grounded in the poetry and integrity of Blaze Foley's gentle demeanor and keen philosophies. 

Ben Foley's heartfelt songs take center stage.

Ben Dickey is a revelation in the role of Blaze; this is not your run-of-the-mill biopic performance. Damn this actor/musician is good — really fuckin' good.

Charlie Sexton brings illuminating thematic and character ballast as singer/songwriter Townes Van Sandt, in a portrayal that is wry as it is weathered.

Still, the role proves to be a thankless task in light of the grave-robbing that Van Sandt committed in order to get the pawn ticket out of Blaze Foley's jacket pocket that Van Sandt could redeem for Foley's last guitar.

Classy.

Sybil Rosen seems to take direct aim at Townes Van Sandt as being a class-A asshole who contributed to Foley's failed music career. Backstabber? Seems like.

The deep love connection between Blaze and his actress girlfriend Sybil (Alia Shawkat) gives this impressive film its emotional core.

The roots of American social themes and attitudes run through "Blaze" like a twisting river.

The life of a troubadour is always a difficult one. Blaze Foley proves up to the challenge.

Damn, this is a great movie.

Rated R. 129 mins.