Biopics are always popular, even when the subject at the center of the story may not be. When the characters are notorious, it makes for more interesting storytelling. Adapting documentaries into full-length feature films isn’t the most common and presents some unique challenges. The Eyes of Tammy Faye is an intriguing and witty look at two of America’s most popular television personalities of the 70s and 80s, with stellar portrayals from Jessica Chastain and Andrew Garfield.
I didn’t see Fendo Bailey and Randy Barbato’s documentary of the same name, so there’s no use in trying to compare them on my end. I have seen a lot of director Michael Showalter’s previous work and he was a great fit for this project. He’s shown a well-rounded sense of humor and that was essential in making this film work. Abe Sylvia’s screenplay didn’t shy away from venturing into the dark corners of its characters’ lives, but it used humor as a way to humanize its leads.
Sure, you could have made it a black-and-white drama (figuratively) about this couple that created an empire on the backs and wallets of their audience, but those binary characters aren’t challenging to play and they’re not entertaining to watch. There are very few moments where either of the leads is intentionally funny, but it’s the context of the situation and the performances that help disarm the audience. I didn’t grow up with Jim and Tammy Faye and I’m far removed from any of that influence that has existed on television for decades, so it was important to communicate that these were likable people at some point prior to their fall from grace. From the outside looking in, it’s comical to see how their religious faith shaped their destinies and ultimately led to their downfalls. It’s not an outright condemnation of Christianity, but more of a lesson in weaponizing faith as a political tool.
Chastain’s portrayal of Tammy Faye is incredible so don’t be surprised when you start hearing her name a lot more during awards season because she’ll likely be the favorite to take home a number of Best Actress awards. Her charisma is never in short supply but it’s the eternal optimism of the character that she really brings through to the surface. She’s so resilient in the face of so much uncertainty that, when the facade cracks, Chastain is able to make her a sympathetic character.
Garfield is excellent as well, playing Tammy’s opposite number. Jim Bakker was something like Mr. Rogers for the Christian television audience and what stood out most to me about Garfield’s performance was the thin line between Bakker’s public persona and his actual identity. He grapples with the idea that his mission is one of faith while it was ultimately one of self-interest, and his difficulty distinguishing between them is what makes him an interesting character. We get to see the push-and-pull between the noble fool and the malicious charlatan.
I’m a big fan of practical filmmaking techniques and you’ve got that on display with this one. The prosthetics are subtle but excellent and I’ve gotta think the hair and makeup styling alone is going to win some awards but Mitchell Travers’ costume design is fantastic as well, especially for Chastain. Barbee S. Livingston’s set design is really something as well when it comes to the television studio sets.
While the film focuses mostly on the lives of Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker as they gained notoriety and wealth, there’s a lot of social fabric that’s woven in. It’s a well-made and enjoyable film with some American historical context.
Recommendation: The subject(s) may be more accessible to those who experienced the Bakker phenomenon during its peak, but the performances are so good that anyone can enjoy the film.
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