"I'm gonna make it do what it do, baby...Yeah!"

Rating: 10/10 (2 November 2004)

"Ray" is a triumphant, inspiring, yet unflinching glimpse into the life of Ray Charles Robinson, a brilliant song writer and musician for over fifty years until his recent passing prior to this movie's release. Ray, whose professional name became Charles in deference to boxer Sugar Ray Robinson, rode a tumultuous journey on his rise to stardom, due to escalating drug use and womanizing that even though it marred his character, did not detract from his enormous talent and business acumen.
Jamie Foxx gives a truly admirable performance of the musical genius, right down to the look and mannerisms, I'm sure his role will garner Academy Award recognition, even if only a nomination. Other standouts include Kerry Washington as wife Della Bea, Aunjanue Ellis as Mary Ann Fisher, and Regina King as Margie Hendricks, lead singer of the Raelettes. Washington in particular challenges her flawed husband to face up to his demons, ultimately succeeding when Charles enters drug rehab to put his heroin addiction and guilt over his younger brother's childhood death behind him. Regina King is also compelling as Hendricks, whose soulful gaze for Charles when she falls in love with him is replaced by scorn, especially evident in the tune that was inspired by their breakup - "Hit the Road, Jack".
In it's somewhat documentary style, "Ray" successfully integrates social commentary along with entertainment, as we see how segregation held blacks inferior well into the 1960's. Charles' 1979 recognition by the state of Georgia for it's prior disregard for his music and achievement is duly noted in the film. As far as films about music entertainers goes, this movie is richer and far superior to those of Charles' earlier contemporaries Buddy Holly (The Buddy Holly Story), and Richie Valens (La Bamba). The songs chosen for the film, all sung by Charles himself, are a memorable tribute to the man who created them.