Austin Film Festival 2011

This documentary gives us an intimate glimpse into the world of award-winning country music star Chely Wright at the most important moment in her life. After a lifetime of hiding to protect her career in a highly conservative industry, Chely comes out as gay and shatters cultural and religious stereotypes within Nashville, her equally conservative family, and most importantly, herself. Over a three-year period, award-winning filmmakers Bobbie Birleffi and Beverly Kopf followed Chely's struggle and her unfolding plan to come out publicly. The film recounts Chelyís past as an established country music star and then moves into the present as she prepares to step into the media glare and reveal that she is gay. In the process, Chely experiences the devastation of her own internalized homophobia and the transformational power of living an authentic life. Chely's story offers great hope but also reminds us that we still have significant work to do if we are to ensure that everyone has a chance at happiness.







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