Superb Musical Biopic

Rating: 9/10 (9 June 2005)

This is the film that Michael Mann's "Ali" wishes it had been.
I didn't take my eyes off the screen for a single second. Jamie Foxx WAS Ray Charles, he'll never top that performance if he lives to 100. And I didn't even particularly like his music before I saw this film. I do now.
The supporting cast gel perfectly together, and draw you into the story. Nothing is overplayed, there is no ham here. The casting is perfect for this type of film, no showboating from the support, to take away your attention from the subject of the biopic, but all the performers put in strong performances.
The way we gradually learn about the tragedy in Rays past, through flashbacks, rather than a straight telling, makes for compelling viewing. The way this affects Ray in the present, helps us to understand why he felt the need to find comfort in Heroin.
Finally, I like the way the film pays homage to Ray, but doesn't sugar-coat the story, pulling no punches with regards to his drug use, or his infidelity. The latter was refreshingly portrayed, as the filmmaker made no attempt to make any excuses for this side of Ray's personality, where some might have tried to pass the buck.
Great movie, pretty much anyone will enjoy this.