Archive · 1 Sep 2025
Ethan Hawke Directs Merle Haggard Documentary
Ethan Hawke directed a documentary about country music legend Merle Haggard, called 'Highway 99: A Double Album.'
Haggard grew up poor and had a tough life, even spending time in jail.
The film uses Haggard's music to tell his story, showing how he rose to fame and connected with working-class people.
Haggard wrote songs about various topics, from immigrants to interracial relationships.
The documentary highlights how Haggard's music touched many people, even those with opposing views.
Hawke believes Haggard's music remains relevant today, providing a space for understanding across different viewpoints.
Ethan Hawke directed the Merle Haggard documentary, 'Highway 99: A Double Album.'
The documentary premiered at the Telluride Film Festival.
Haggard's life included escaping juvenile hall and prison multiple times.
Haggard's music explored diverse topics, from the working class to social issues.
The film aims to show how Haggard's music speaks to contemporary America.
- Who
- Ethan Hawke and Merle Haggard
- What
- A documentary about Merle Haggard's life and music
- When
- Premiered at the Telluride Film Festival
- Where
- Oildale, California; Highway 99
- Why
- To explore Haggard's life, music, and his relevance to contemporary America
- Documentary Title
- Highway 99: A Double Album
- Director
- Ethan Hawke
- Subject
- Merle Haggard
- Haggard's Death
- Died in 2016, on his birthday, at 79
- Focus
- Haggard's life and music