Sweet Dreams (1985)

From Hank Williams to Loretta Lynn, it seems all the biggest country-western musicians are required to have biopics. This film chronicles the too short life of Patsy Cline, here portrayed by Jessica Lange, particularly her tumultuous second marriage. Blissfully shorter than Coal Miner’s Daughter, I appreciated this much more because of its tighter focus and succinctness. Though certainly giving a lot of energy in her performance, Lange didn’t come across as an embodiment of the young singer. Lip synching to Cline’s own recordings did nothing but emphasize the mismatch between the two women. 

Oscar Nomination: Best Actress in a Leading Role