Masterful! Deeply inspirational, thrilling love story. And, I was not a Johnny Cash fan, either!

Rating: 10/10 (12 February 2006)

I have just seen 'Walk the Line', and was very surprised. I expected a bio-pic, interesting, perhaps, but no big thing. What I saw was astounding. And I must point out that I have never been a particular Johnny Cash fan, either. So my total admiration for this movie comes from the movie itself, and not from any satisfaction at seeing the life of a personal hero. In fact, it was the reverse: my general distaste for Cash was an obstacle to overcome. And overcome it the movie really did. I am still not a fan of the music, particularly, but am now a fan and admirer of the people--- Johnny Cash and June Carter.
First, Joaqin Phoenix was brilliant as Cash. I 'bought' his portrayal at all times. Whether he looks exactly like Cash or not is irrelevant, although he looked like him to me. His vibe and spirit were spot on. The fact that Phoenix did all his own singing was a bonus. What an amazing talent! Phoenix made Cash into a likable, complex, thoughtful, and 'deep' person. Given the Phoenix slant, I now have a genuine respect for the actual Cash.
Reese Witherspoon was also astounding. Her Oscar nom was well deserved. As you know, she is a native of Tennessee (in the American South, and the state where Memphis and Nashville, the two capitals of country music are), so the Southern accent and old-timery Southern demeanor were natural and easy for her. More than doing a mere imitation of June Carter, though, Witherspoon also portrayed the loving and passionate woman Carter was in real life. With Witherspoon's portrayal, it was easy to believe that her love for, and belief in, her man could save him, turn his life around, and deliver him to greatness and peace.
And the portrayal of the entire Carter family was also inspirational. The intelligent love, acceptance, and understanding of Johnny Cash by the Carter clan was truly heart-rending. I also enjoyed the scene where Daddy Carter appears brandishing a shotgun, chasing away Cash's erstwhile drug connection, while Cash was recovering in his bed, about to give up his drug addiction, go clean, and 'walk the line' for the woman he loved. Then, to hear the women's voices (Mother Maybelle Carter and June Carter) joining in with the Dad in chasing the drug dealer off, and then the camera shot of Mother Maybelle Carter also appearing with her own shotgun was breathtaking. With a family like that loving you and believing in you, when folks like that 'have your back', then anything is possible in this world.
So, I was surprised and inspired by this movie, and Johnny Cash, and the Carter family. Who would have thought it was a great love story? Go see it, you'll love it! As a 'date movie', or as your once-a-year cinema experience. It's really worth the effort. I gave this a well-deserved 10 out of 10.