Jessica Chastain as Tammy Faye in the film “The Eyes of Tammy Faye.” (Photo Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures)
Searchlight Pictures’ new film, “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” gives an “intimate” look at the rise, fall and redemption of infamous televangelist Tammy Faye Messner.
During the 1970s and ’80s, Messner and her husband at the time, Jim Bakker, created the world’s largest religious broadcasting network and theme park. They were loved and adored by millions of fans for their messages of love and hope. That is until financial problems and scandals brought down their empire.
Messner was known for her eccentric appearance and over-the-top personality. After Bakker went to prison for fraud and conspiracy in 1989, Messner filed for divorce and would go on to co-host a short-lived daytime talk show with comedian and actor Jim J. Bullock. Messner made headlines in the ’80s for being one of the only mainstream televangelist who were accepting of the LGBTQ community and would frequently reach out to HIV/AIDS patients.
Directed by Michael Showalter and written by Abe Sylvia, “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” stars Academy Award-nominated actress Jessica Chastain in the titular role of the gay icon, Academy Award-nominated actor Andrew Garfield as Bakker and Emmy Award-nominated actor Vincent D’Onofrio as televangelist Jerry Falwell.
“The Eyes of Tammy Faye” will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival before opening in theaters Sept. 17.
Watch the trailer below.
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