Ray

USA 2004, 146 minutes
Dir. Taylor Hackford
Rating: [PG]
Genres: Drama, Music

Aroview: The life and career of innovative blues-singer Ray Charles (here played by Jamie Foxx) gets epic and reverential treatment in this Oscar-winning biopic.

Raised in poor rural Georgia, the blind Charles went on to massive commercial success in the 1950s with an original melding of gospel and r&b styles, before eventually stumbling over the cliches of fame: heroin, adultery and artistic dilution. Charting Charles' lifetime (up until the late 1970s) with the familiar Hollywood mechanisms of focused drama, montage and flashback, this is notable chiefly for its lead performance.

Foxx here gives a brilliant turn, proving the fulfillment of the actor's rise to critical notice, with a finely turned imitation of Charles, invested with real heart and soul.

Member Reviews

Average rating (Very Good). Showing 1-3 of 3 member reviews.

I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
4 stars (Very Good) Jamie Foxx is almost an avatar of Charles. Well-paced biography exposing the unique musicality of Charles as well as his personal hubris. Could have more music for his fans but a good film to keep and enjoy many times. ~rakau
I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
5 stars (Exceptional) Great film on a great singer, amazingly well-played by Janie Foxx. Conveys the pain of performance at this level. Watch out for 14-year-old Quincy Jones hustling on the street and offering good advice, as always. ~Sandy
I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
2 stars (Good Try) Strongest are his childhood scenes. It takes a while for the musical aspects to take effect & some of them are excellent as are set designs/costumes.However the film shoots itself in the foot by being too long - some of the scenes just drag. ~Tubbs