Be Here to Love Me

Margaret Brown's 2004 documentary is about the songwriter Townes Van Zandt. He came from a wealthy Texas family, chose to stay in music, never reached commercial success and became known through other people singing his songs. At the centre is the cost of that choice. Alcohol, drug use, the psychiatric treatment he received in youth and a life permanently on the road are covered in detail; the narrative does not present them as the reason for his creativity. Brown uses a wide archive and includes Van Zandt's own recordings. Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson and Guy Clark speak among others. The songs are played without cuts. Who it's for: those interested in country and folk music. Who it's not for: viewers sensitive to addiction and mental health; the documentary places them at the centre.