Popternative is virtually covering this year’s Austin Film Festival and we had the pleasure of screening the film Ragged Heart – a rusted-out, supernatural drama set in the music scene of Athens, Georgia. Written by sister and brother Debrah and Evan McNary, the film follows a washed up musician who tries to complete the last song his daughter wrote before her tragic death. This is the first feature film by the brother and sister duo who have been collaborating on projects since their childhood. Ragged Heart had its world premiere at the Austin Film Festival on Thursday, October 21, 2021, and it will be screening again on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 (details below).
It stars Joshua Mikel (The Walking Dead, The Righteous Gemstones), and Eddie Craddock who makes his leading role debut on screen. What makes this film feel authentic are the many Athens-based musicians, artists, and local residents who appear in the film. These include legendary musicians Jim White, Patterson Hood (Drive-by Truckers), Sienna Chandler (Monsoon), Willow Avalon, Linqua Franqa, LeeAnn Peppers and Donna Hopkins. Visual artists include painter/Athens, Georgia royalty Vernon Thornsberry and folk art legend Chris Hubbard (CHUB) who both have significant roles in the film.
It’s clear when watching that Ragged Heart is fueled by American New Wave films such as Five Easy Pieces, Nashville and Tender Mercies. It also shares similarities in the way it’s filmed and documented with recent films such as PIG and Nomadland. Filled with flashback scenes and captivating cinematography, Ragged Heart truly depicts the importance of art in various ways. While death, drug addiction, and mental health are key themes throughout, they are brought together and portrayed through the power of music, visual art, and poetry. Ragged Heart isn’t your average supernatural film, which makes it all that more of an intriguing and truly unique experience.
Next Screening at the Austin Film Festival:
6:15pm — Wednesday October 27, 2021 (with cast & crew Q&A)
Galaxy Highland – Screen 9 — 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
Ragged Heart Website: www.raggedheartfilm.com
Watch the trailer here
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