Blaze

Blaze

Dir. Ethan Hawke

IFC Films

When singer-songwriter, country artist Blaze Foley was shot to death at the age of 39 during a confrontation over stolen pension checks, all but a small handful of other musicians and close friends took notice. Over the years though, Foley’s music has become more and more well-known and his popularity grew enough to warrant a biographical film directed by none other than Ethan Hawke. Blaze traces Foley’s turbulent life and musical career as he struggled with substance addiction, homelessness and small successes as a songwriter. The film exceptionally does well introducing viewers to one of country songwriting’s least known geniuses. (Simon Weedn)