Guy Clark Documentary ‘Without Getting Killed or Caught’ Honors Legendary Texas Songwriter

A new documentary that pays tribute to revered Texan singer-songwriter Guy Clark is making its way across the Lone Star State.

Without Getting Killed or Caught, directed by Tamara Saviano and Paul Whitfield, offers audiences a 90-minute look into the experiences that inspired Clark’s poetic lyrics and touching melodies.

The film — which screens July 23 in Austin at AFS Cinema and then in Dallas, Plano, Abilene, Houston and San Antonio — is based in part on the book Without Getting Killed or Caught: The Life and Music of Guy Clark, written by co-director Saviano.

The diaries of Clark’s wife, hit songwriter Susanna Clark, also help tell the story of the film with the voice of Academy Award-winner Sissy Spacek narrating her perspective. Emotional accounts of Susanna’s complicated marriage with Clark as well as their close friendship with fellow Texan singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt are detailed in the film. With the intimate exploration into how these obscure artists rose to become the influential figures they are today, a tale of art, tragedy and love is revealed.

In following the journey to enduring success for each of these artists, the movie features Clark’s music, family photos and archives, vintage film footage and radio talk show appearances.

Interviews with other musicians and those close to Clark — including Rodney Crowell, Steve Earle, Vince Gill, Verlon Thompson and Terry and Jo Harvey Allen, as well as record executive Barry Poss — also play prominent roles in the film, which aims to honor Clark’s talent, body of work and the fascinating life of a legend.

Without Getting Killed or Caught will begin screening in Austin on July 23rd at the AFS Cinema. Purchase tickets here.