A Worthy Tribute

Rating: 8/10 (8 February 2006)

Biopics are notoriously difficult subjects, but this film benefits not only from having such an enigmatic character in Johnny Cash, but his story is nothing short of compelling.
The music performances are excellent, especially 'Jackson' which holds a candle to the original. And I love the way that the Luther Perkins character (subtly played by Dan John Miller) creates the riff for 'Folsom Prison Blues' during the audition for Sam Phillips.
The acting performances are also exceptional throughout. Joaquin Phoenix captures the troubled spirit of one who lost his elder brother at a tragically young age (maybe drawing on his own experiences at the passing of his brother River). I have always rated Reese Witherspoon as an actress, but her performance as June Carter is a revelation. It's a shame she seems to settle for romantic comic leads, maybe an Oscar win might change that.
Highly recommended for anyone, regardless of whether you are a fan (like I am) or not (like my wife). Word of warning though, don't expect strong impressions of supporting characters such as Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis. This is not Stars In Their Eyes.