BY GUS YEAGER

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I went into the theater to see The Eyes of Tammy Faye. As a member of a younger generation, the ideas I had of the PTL, its subsequent scandal, and even televangelism itself were distant and foriegn. Following the information presented in the opening minutes, I was ready for the biopic to enlighten me on such matters. Unfortunately, I can’t say with any degree of confidence that I have gained a great deal of understanding after the closing credits had rolled. 

The movie suffers chiefly from a severe lack of consistency, leaving plot threads and motifs woefully undeveloped throughout the two-hour runtime. A great deal of sequences left me scratching my head as I tried to remember who or what was relevant, and what was supposed to be ignored. It found it difficult to direct my attention to the proper points of emphasis. Rather than being guided through the narrative, it seemed as though I was being jarred to and fro by forces within the film (primarily the overall organization) that operated without too much regard for rhyme or rhythm. 

The Eyes of Tammy Faye did possess a saving grace, however. The work done by Jessica Chastain and Andrew Garfield playing Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker, respectively, was of a quality that can only be described as superb. The heartfelt moments that hid in the corners of the messy script were truly brought out to shine by Chastain and Garfield. It cannot be emphasized enough that the performances turned in by the pair were absolutely fantastic.

The Eyes of Tammy Faye did not greatly affect me, although I’m sure there are audiences that will be more receptive to it than I was. If you can look past the glaring flaws, it is not an unenjoyable experience. 

Rating: 5/10.