New Documentary “Jason Isbell: Running with Our Eyes Closed” to Premiere on HBO on April 7

The Music Box series on HBO, which highlights significant moments in the music industry, is set to premiere a new documentary film directed and produced by Sam Jones titled JASON ISBELL: RUNNING WITH OUR EYES CLOSED. The project, executive produced by The Ringer’s Bill Simmons and Emmy® winners Mark and Jay Duplass, will air on Friday, April 7 (8:00-9:40PM ETPT) on HBO and HBO Max.

The documentary offers an intimate account of Jason Isbell’s personal and creative journey, as he works with his band The 400 Unit to record his new album “Reunions.” Isbell shares candid insights into his troubled childhood, addiction issues, struggles in relationships, and how he channels his pain into his music. As the COVID-19 pandemic alters daily life and forces him and his family into isolation, Isbell must face the challenges and fears that come with being a recovering addict and artist, despite the album receiving critical acclaim.

Jason opens up about the challenges he faces collaborating closely with his wife Amanda Shires, an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and fiddle player, in the film, as he reveals his deeply personal approach to music creation. Their artistic connection becomes increasingly evident as they write, record, and perform together, which both enhances and complicates their relationship.

This intimate look into the life and artistry of four-time GRAMMY winner JASON ISBELL reveals his journey from childhood in rural Alabama, to battling alcoholism while a member of Drive-By Truckers, to his present marital state. Music has always been a crucial part of his story, providing an outlet for expression and solace during hard times. RUNNING WITH OUR EYES CLOSED is an insightful piece into Isbell’s creative process.

JASON ISBELL: RUNNING WITH OUR EYES CLOSED is highlighted by candid interviews with Jason and Amanda Pearl Shires and his musical peers including musicians Chad Gamble, Sadler Vaden, Jimbo Hart, Derry DeBorja, Patterson Hood, producer Dave Cobb, and manager Traci Thomas.

HBO Documentary Films presents JASON ISBELL: RUNNING WITH OUR EYES CLOSED in association with Ringer Films, Duplass Brothers Productions, and Beware Doll / GraySky. Directed and produced by Sam Jones; produced by Crawford Shippey; co-produced by Traci Thomas, Will Dowsett, Davin Michaels, and Pell James; executive produced by Bill Simmons, Mark Duplass, Mel Eslyn, Jay Duplass, Jody Gerson, and Marc Cimino; co-executive produced by Geoff Chow, Sean Fennessey, Noah Malale, Shuli Harel. For HBO: executive producers, Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Tina Nguyen.