One of the Best Movie Bios

Rating: 10/10 (25 May 2013)

It has been said that "Life is easy, Comedy is hard." It could also be said that the Movie Bio is the most difficult of Genres. Given that it is at the very least a tough task, this one makes it look quite easy. It manages to create a template of the Person, time, place, and Art of Ray Charles.
Firstly, Jamie Foxx instantly assumes the Role. He is believable from the get go and starts things pulsating, pumping the Piano and moving into the skin, and literally becomes Ray. Next, they wisely, as not always the case (Johnny Cash/Buddy Holly), chose to use the actual Singing Voice of Ray Charles. It is such an ingratiating Voice that the only drawback is that many of the Songs are not playing for long. The Audience instantly wants more.
That is a testament to the drawing power of this Man's talent, in its ability to transfigure all of Popular Music. The Movie, after these foundations are set, is also engaging in the more Personal, Non-Musical aspects of his Career and Life. It's all here with enough information and happily stylizing the Good and the Bad, the Genius and the Flaws, the Warmth and Cool calculations and at times, distant affection.
Bio's don't get much better than this. If you are a Ray Charles Fan you won't be disappointed, and if you are looking for an introduction to the Man and His Music, this is a good start. This is a stunning Movie all around and is near flawless.