Biopic at its best

Rating: 10/10 (14 November 2004)

Taylor Hackford has crafted one of the best and most unflinchingly honest biopics ever made. The writing is excellent, the period scenery and costuming accurate, and of course, the acting is incredible. Who would ever thought when Jamie Foxx was appearing on "In Living Color" (despite his hilarious comic acting) that he would quickly become one of America's greatest dramatic actors? The supporting cast is superb, from Curtis Armstrong to Sharon Warren, but especially the tour de force performances by Clifton Powell, Bokeem Woodbine, Kerry Washington, and in a break out performance that should garner a supporting actress nomination--Regina King.
This is a movie that should sweep the Oscars and endure for generations to come. The only drawback is the feeling that the ending came too soon (despite the 150 minute running time), just as Ray Charles' sudden end of life came so suddenly. Powerful, powerful, powerful. A must see.