Alcoholic former country singer Mac Sledge makes friends with a young widow and her son. The friendship enables him to find inspiration to resume his career.
Acting
Duvall's Oscar win for whispering a monologue about love.
Writing
Horton Foote's dialogue so sparse it aches.
Score
Duvall sang every song himself. Yes, really.
Director
Bruce Beresford
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Duvall was so committed he lived in a Texas motel for weeks, playing local bars in character. The director didn't even know where he was.
This tiny film beat The Right Stuff and Terms of Endearment for Best Actor—proof that Academy voters sometimes recognize volcanic restraint over showboating.
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