An Instant American Classic

Rating: 10/10 (17 October 2004)

Every 10 years or so there's a work of cinematic beauty that reminds us as African-Americans how glorious our history is and how tremendous our contributions have been. 'Sounder' comes to mind. 'A Raisin in the Sun' inspires equally deserved comparisons. I couldn't possibly be so remiss as to not mention 'The Color Purple.'
'Ray' is a landmark film and cinematic masterpiece, the silver-screen jewel for this generation.
There have been many film biographies chronicling the life and times of influential, compelling figures in entertainment and African-American history. There have even been similarly themed biographies detailing the seeming inextricable link between creative genius and personal tragedy.
Many of these movies had Oscar-worthy performances. Who wasn't moved by Denzel Washington's portrayal of Malcolm X or Ruben 'Hurricane' Carter? Who could ignore the breathtaking performance of Angela Bassett as Tina Turner? In fact, to this day, the eerie similarities between Halle Berry and Dorothy Dandridge are inexplicable.
I mean, other than Oscar voterswho could discount these great performances?
Even Will Smith as Cassius Clay/Muhammad Ali was nothing short of brilliant.
To be sure, we'll always remember these movies and the stunning performances therein.
But
All pale in comparison to the performance turned in by Jamie Foxx as the late, legendary singer Ray Charles. Every mannerism and idiosyncrasy were keenly accounted for; from the peculiar curvature of Ray's mouth as he sung to Ray's signature stiff, swaying, semi-ambulatory gait. From Ray's staccato, country speech pattern to his distinctive style of moving his hands about the keyboard, Foxx did it allperfectly.
This performance is awe-inspiring and unparalleled in nature. It is not only one of the greatest in Black cinema historybut in American cinematic history.
Jamie Foxx wasn't 'just like' Ray Charles. This wasn't some great 'impression' or imitation of Ray Charles.
He WAS Ray Charles.
That's not hyperbole, just legitimate reasons as to why Jamie Foxx deserves the Academy Award for Best Actor.
Granted, Foxx has neither been nominated nor have I seen possibly the other yet-to-be-named nominees. Yet I submit to youI dare you to find another display of acting genius this year that exceeds Foxx's. Another omission by Academy voters this time would be shameful beyond mention.
What makes this movie special is more than just Foxx's performance. If you remember Ray or are familiar with archive footage you better appreciate the directorial vision of Taylor Hackford. Many of the 'performance' scenes and camera angles mimic the original footage and allow a very clear comparison of Jamie Foxx to Ray Charles. It was like watching the actual footage.
Noit was like watching Ray.
'Ray' is not just the life of Ray Charles set to film; it's also a lesson in American history.
Foxx's incredible acting talent wasn't the only one worthy of mention in this film. Actress Regina King's performance as Ray's mistress and backup singer, Margie Hendricks was as powerful as it was impressive. The on-screen chemistry between Foxx and King is remarkable and arguably the most important reason why this movie succeeds where other films in this genre have not. Rarely do you get the 'film' to live up to the lead actor(s) performance. 'Ali' was a perfect example of this seeming inability to 'get it ALL right.'
My next question is when Regina King will get her opportunity to have her own career-defining and starring role; one that we'll be able to applaud for years to come. She's far too talented for it not to happen.
It needs to happen.
A 'Best Supporting Actress' nod for this role is not out of the question either. She was simply fabulous and should be acknowledged accordingly.
If you wish to see more meaningful Black film, support this movie. 'Ray' is proof that we are better than 'Soul Plane' and all of its variations. 'Ray' is how we show Hollywood that we want and deserve more from our moviesnot a single 'N-word' in the 2.5 hour movie. 'Ray' is a detailed statement as to why African-American men love their mothers so much. 'Ray' is a tribute to the strength of single-mothers and their single-minded love for their children. Most importantly, 'Ray' is a fitting farewell to one of the greatest entertainers the world has ever seen.