One of the best Bio films ever made

Rating: 10/10 (23 November 2005)

I wouldn't call myself a Johnny Cash fan, my Dad always was so I knew his music and a little about him but the trailers looked good so off I went and I was blown away!! I can't say I was a big fan of Joaquin Phoenix either although I must admit he's been in some of my favorite films and did well (Gladiator, Signs.) His performance as the late Man In Black Johnny Cash was incredible. The film chronicles everything from Cash's childhood upbringing, the loss of his big brother and his relationship with his father throughout his starting years as a superstar. Drug addiction, his first marriage, his handling of fame, and best and most of all...his music.
I would almost classify this film as a musical it's so full of Cash's music. It's beautiful and brilliant. Even if you're not a big fan you'll recognize some of his bigger hits and they don't overplay the songs they are just such a huge component of the film!! The script is riveting and nothing is overdone, the pace of the film is downright brilliant and every minute is worthwhile and intriguing. Next to the music the next best thing is the incredible romance in this story. This film will appeal to the absolute best of romantic fans out there. Cash's relationship, friendship and love with his future wife (of more than 35 years) June Carter is beautiful and handled with such grace and intensity and done with the perfect amount of pace. You feel everything about them. June Carter is played with equal fervor by Reese Witherspoon, probably one of the biggest stars in the film. Although I can't say the role is a big stretch for her, being she is from the south and grew up with the same influences she does an amazing job as the fire cracker June Carter. It chronicles her first two marriages, her children, her caring for everyone around her and her desire to save her best friends life (Cash.) So much is covered in the film but it never feels forced together and rushed. This is without a doubt James Mangold's best work as director and writer. He must be an enormous Cash fan because this film was made with such passion and heart. Other notable appearances are Robert Patrick as Cash's overbearing, rather harsh father, and Ginnifer Goodwin as Cash's first wife Vivian. Some of Cash's children are speaking out against this film supposedly because of the portrayal of their mother Vivian saying it shows her to be jealous of Cash's career but I didn't get that at all!! If it painted anyone in a bad light, in those early days, it was Cash himself. He was a poor husband, drug addicted and nearly abusive. I did think at times that the character of Vivian was portrayed a little shallow and without any real substance but Goodwin did a good job.
I honestly would have still been blown away by this film has Phoenix and Witherspoon lip synced every line but they DIDN'T!! Both of them spent months in vocal training and instrument training and nailed these performances. Together their chemistry was unstoppable, possibly one of the best on screen duos to date which truly captured Cash and Carter and their relationship. Their performances and singing were absolutely astounding!! This film rivals and overtakes last years brilliant bio "RAY" starring the incredible Jamie Foxx so if you liked Ray you absolutely must see Walk The Line. This film is an instant classic and I would love to see an Academy Award sweep because it's well deserved. The best film I have seen in ages and one of my favorites from now on!! A huge 10/10