Scottsdale International Film Festival 2008

“The music business can be hazardous to your health.” So warns Hank Garland in the opening of this superb biopic chronicling the 1950’s Nashville guitarist's life -- from his humble debut at the Grand Ole Opry to becoming one of the most sought after studio session players in the business. Garland contributed to country and rockabilly classics by Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline and countless others. The film depicts both Garland’s tremendous range across many musical genres as well as his passion for the music -- passions that often led to fights, disagreements, and reckless encounters with domineering musical executives and other performers. As temperamental as Garland was, when it came to the music, his pure joy and skill were unparalleled. However, such joy did not necessarily transcend to his personal life. He falls into a love that quickly turns into an obsession. The object of his obsession, played by Heroes Ali Larter, is the beautiful Evelyn, a quick-thinking blonde impervious to his “groupie tactics.” Nevertheless, after marrying Garland, Evelyn learns that she’s no match for the lure of the road or the promise of a new song. Such temptations continually test Garland, mightily portrayed by Waylon Payne (who played Jerry Lee Lewis in Walk the Line), and his ability to remain uncorrupted in a corrupt industry. ~ Jen Johans

Waylon Payne (Hank Garland) will be in attendance to present the film and participate in a 30-35 minute post-film conversation with the audience. Afterwards, Waylon will perform his songs under the stars at the circular stage on Stetson Drive. The stage is located in front of DIGESTIF Restaurant and adjacent to FOODBAR Restaurant. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.