Flannery (2019)

"Flannery," a vivid portrait of one of America's most distinctive literary icons, takes us on a journey into the heart of the South, a place teeming with both grotesque and realistic elements, according to northern perception. This NEH-funded feature-length documentary delves into the enigmatic life of Flannery O'Connor, a woman of profound faith, remarkable humor, and enduring physical disability who carved her name into the world of literature before her untimely death at forty. O'Connor's tales, steeped in dark humor and southern gothic flair, have resonated for decades, inspiring an array of artists, writers, and musicians. "Flannery" presents her narrative through a captivating tapestry of cartoons, animations, and previously unseen archival footage, all underscored by a stirring musical backdrop. This compelling documentary, featuring the likes of Tommy Lee Jones, Alice Walker, Mary Karr, Tobias Wolff, Hilton Als, Alice McDermott, Bill T. Jones, and Lucinda Williams, serves as a chorus of voices sharing their insights, artistry, and music. All are drawn together by their admiration for O'Connor's talent and her struggle with a central paradox - how can individuals simultaneously embrace faith and perform acts of profound violence? "Flannery" is more than a biography; it's a kaleidoscopic exploration of one woman's tenacious spirit, her profound understanding of the human condition, and her enduring influence on American literature. It's a story sure to intrigue, inspire, and challenge the viewer.

Flannery is a documentary movie featuring Mary Steenburgen and directed by Mark Bosco.

Flannery is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Hoopla.

It is also possible to buy Flannery on Amazon Video.