THE EASY KIND, a narrative feature inspired by and starring Nashville singer Elizabeth Cook, premiered last weekend at the 51st Telluride Film Festival in Colorado. Written and directed by Katy Chevigny, and edited by Rodrigo Brazão (on loan from Union), the film takes audiences on a spirited journey of self-discovery and artistic liberation.
The film portrays a semi-fictionalized version of Cook, referred to as “EC,” who embodies the essence of the real-life country singer and songwriter. Both the real Cook and her cinematic counterpart are depicted as strong, resilient women navigating the challenges of their careers and personal lives. The narrative explores the complexities and demands of existing as a woman in a demanding world, reflecting the same bold spirit captured in Cook’s music.
“For me, the most challenging part of editing ‘The Easy Kind’ was creating bridges between the script and the archival material we had from Elizabeth’s childhood and concerts,” said Brazão. “The film needed to feel seamless for this back and forth to enhance the story Katy wanted to tell, bringing real emotions and songs into the final cut. It’s a nice and refreshing touch.”
Viewers are introduced to Elizabeth Cook through her powerful performance of “Sometimes It Takes Balls to Be a Woman.” This sets the stage for a narrative that blurs the lines between fact and fiction.
“While a working knowledge of the real-life Cook might help smooth out some of the rougher edges of Chevigny’s drama, from the start, it’s clear Cook is somebody,” wrote Kate Erbland in IndieWire, reviewing the film at Telluride. “Not just because she’s an instantly vivacious presence on the big screen, but because Chevigny has found some heavy-hitters to join her up there.” THE EASY KIND – which earned a ‘B’ from the notoriously discriminating mag – boasts appearances by Karen Allen, Susie Essman, and David Letterman.
Brazão’s recent credits include OUTSTANDING: A COMEDY REVOLUTION – the first feature length documentary to examine the history of queer stand-up comedy. The film, which counts Katherine LeBlond of Union Editorial as a producer, premiered on Netflix this past June.
THE EASY KIND Credits
Director: Katy Chevigny
Producers: Natalie Farrey, Peter Gilbert, Nikhil Melnechuk
Executive Producer: Marilyn Ness
Editors: Rodrigo Brazão & Curtis Grout
Lead Talent: Elizabeth Cook
Production Companies: Big Mouth Productions, Mystic Entertainment, Forager Films
