Searchlight Pictures' "The Eyes of Tammy Faye" is a biographical drama film, released in 2021, about the life of televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker. The movie is based on the documentary of the same name, which aired on Sundance TV in 2000.
The film tells the story of Tammy Faye Bakker (played by Jessica Chastain), starting with her childhood years in Minnesota, where she was raised in a modest household and became fascinated with televangelism. Tammy Faye rose to fame in the 1970s when she met and married Jim Bakker (played by Andrew Garfield), and together, they started PTL (Praise the Lord) Club, an evangelical show that aired on television. The Bakkers' fame and fortune grew, and they became multimillionaires, owning luxury homes, hotels, and a theme park.
However, the couple's success was short-lived, as allegations of fraud, sexual misconduct, and financial improprieties led to their public downfall. Tammy Faye struggled to defend her reputation and keep her marriage intact, even as Jim Bakker was eventually found guilty and imprisoned.
"The Eyes of Tammy Faye" is a moving portrait of a woman who was both revered and ridiculed for her unorthodox style and her unwavering faith. Jessica Chastain gives a brilliant performance as Tammy Faye, portraying her with empathy, humor, and vulnerability. Andrew Garfield also shines in his role as Jim Bakker, revealing the complicated and conflicting emotions of a man who was both charismatic and deceitful.
The film's director, Michael Showalter, has done an excellent job of balancing the film's dramatic moments with lighthearted humor. The costumes, hair, and makeup are spectacular, and the set design transports us to the glitzy world of televangelism in the 80s.
Overall, "The Eyes of Tammy Faye" is a captivating film that takes a close look at the life of one of the most prominent televangelists of our time and the controversies that surrounded her. It's a touching story of love, faith, and redemption that will leave you inspired and moved.