One might not think that the soft-spoken, easy-listening eloquent songwriter James Taylor would make for a great leading man or even a perfect cameo actor in a movie, but that would be wrong. Taylor is fit for the silver screen.
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Here are three movies in which Taylor shines. From one that goes back more than 50 years to a more recent comedy to an even more recent duet with another icon, these movies are fit for your attention, to be sure.
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1. Two-Lane Blacktop (1971)
This 1971 movie, directed by Monte Hellman, is about drag racing. But it’s also about much more. It involves a cross-country drive, a love triangle, risk and reward, and flying by the seat of your pants. The movie stars another Hall of Fame artist, the Beach Boys drummer Dennis Wilson. Taylor (aka “The Driver”) and Wilson (aka “The Mechanic”) need to win in order to survive in the harsh world.
2. Funny People (2009)
This 2009 comedy, directed by Judd Apatow, stars Adam Sandler as a jaded comedian, wondering how his life might end after receiving a bleak health diagnosis. But spliced into the lengthy film is a cameo from Taylor, who plays a gig for hire. In the movie, not only do fans get a glimpse at his excellent songwriting, singing, and musicianship, but fans get a bit of comedy from the artist too.
3. Carole King & James Taylor: Just Call Out My Name (2022)
Two longtime friends and songwriters unite in this 2022 concert documentary, which stars Taylor and Carole King. With interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, never-before-seen clips, and music, this is the perfect watch for fans of either artist. The two have been friends and collaborators for decades and now you can see why.
(Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images for iHeartRadio)
