To pre-empt studio interference, Altman screened a rough cut of his ambitious tapestry for Kael, who published an enthusiastic review—paving the way for further critical boosts upon the film’s release and five Oscar nominations, with Keith Carradine’s “I’m Easy” winning for Best Original Song. Joan Tewkesbury’s script radiates compassion and tartness, as America’s country music capital preps for a political rally while private dramas reach their own crescendos.