Ray Charles: Only Human

Rating: 10/10 (1 February 2005)

This may be one of the 5 best movies I have ever seen in my 22 years on this Earth. I am a huge fan of Ray Charles but knew very little of his life other than his music.
This movie shows the life of Ray Charles as it was. Ray watched his brother die, then became blind from disease as he got older, found success at a price, was addicted to drugs, disrespectful to his friends, and an adulterer, but as this movie shows Ray was only human.
Knowing little of Ray's personal life, I was upset to learn of his drug addiction and his cheating ways As the success came for Ray so did the trouble. He became a heroin addict and was very hostile to his friends and co-workers who stood by his side throughout his career. Despite being loved by his adoring wife Ray still had a wandering eye, or hands as the case may be, while on the road, and even had a child with one of the Rayvettes. But any respect I lost for the man was regained when I heard that he had overcome his addiction to heroin and was sober of it until the day he passed away.
Jamie Foxx, whom I am not a fan of, gives an Oscar winning caliber performance, getting down the mannerisms and voice of Ray Charles that makes you think it really is Ray. I even enjoyed the cinematography which I rarely care about when watching a movie.
So great acting (by the whole cast not just Foxx), directing and cinematography make this one of the best movies ever. 10/10 A must see.