Shakespeare Was A Big George Jones Fan: Cowboy Jack Clement's Home Movies

Shakespeare Was A Big George Jones Fan: Cowboy Jack Clement's Home Movies is a captivating and whimsical insight into the world of legendary record and film producer, Cowboy Jack Clement. The title itself is a reference to Cowboy Jack's eccentric personality and his witty ability to blend seemingly disconnected worlds - Shakespeare, country music, and the rock-n-roll lifestyle, making it an idiosyncratic exploration of his life and influence on the music industry.

The documentary, filmed in 2005, is a biographical representation and celebration of the life of Cowboy Jack Clement, known for his dynamic contribution to the world of rock-n-roll, country-western and the culture of Nashville, Tennessee. It does not follow the conventional narrative but is instead a collage of home video footage, professionally filmed interviews, and photos that serve to capture the genuine personality, wit, and creativity of Cowboy Jack, showing glimpses of his quirks and innovative spirit that significantly shaped the music genres he was involved with.

The film starts off with introductions to Jack Clement - a unique musician, songwriter, performer, record and film producer, born in 1931, who wore many hats throughout his illustrious career. Over the years, Jack worked with an impressive array of artists across different genres, such as pioneering Sun Records, where he discovered and recorded Jerry Lee Lewis while also working with Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and numerous others.

The movie features celebrity anecdotes and interviews with high-profile musicians like Bono and Johnny Cash, amongst others, who knew him personally and professionally. The narrative structure allows the audience to learn and understand further about his inspiration, direction, and the impact he had on these artists' careers and the music industry at large.

It is remarkable how the movie uses home videos to engage the viewer which were evidently not intended for public viewing. These videos featuring the self-dubbed Cowboy’s Holiday Junket filmed from 1974-1992, wonderfully encapsulate Clement's humor and eccentricity blending with a behind-the-scenes look at some intimate, yet hilarious, jam sessions, rehearsals, informal gatherings at Clement's Nashville home, and parties with his famous guests. The interchange between these candid shots and professional interviews creates a comprehensive portrayal that wins hearts and incites chuckles.

The film portrays rare insight into the personal life of the maverick, Jack Clement, revered for being an instrumental figure behind some of the most significant moments in contemporary American music. His countless professional achievements and contributions are showcased from his days at Sun Records, RCA, his associations with the Memphis Rock-n-Roll, leading to his influence on the Nashville Sound.

Music naturally plays a significant role in the film, encompassing original tracks composed by Jack himself as well as other music industry classics and hits. These heighten the emotion, add enjoyment, and reflect the era of music that Jack is most associated with, making the film a treat for music lovers.

Shakespeare Was A Big George Jones Fan: Cowboy Jack Clement's Home Movies is a vibrant and charmingly eccentric tribute to the unsung hero of the music industry, Cowboy Jack Clement. It provides audiences a fantastic opportunity to venture into the times, life, and mind of a fascinating character whose impact on the American music scene was vital and revolutionary. The unconventional film is packed with a wealth of historical media, cultural contexts, and a mix of hidden gem moments, making it a must-see for anyone interested in an authentic depiction of the music industry's golden era.