Ray
This biopic tells the life story of rhythm and blues legend Ray Charles (Jamie Foxx, who won a Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal). Born to a poor family in Albany, Ga., Charles contracted glaucoma at age 6 (which robbed him of his eyesight) and nonetheless went on to become a world-famous pianist and performer. He dealt with racism, romantic letdowns and his own heroin abuse, but managed to triumph over all obstacles. Taylor Hackford directs.
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» Reviewed by 8 people
I liked the story, liked the acting, like Ray Charles. Did not like the technical aspects of this film, the cinematography and editing in this movie were terrible. Camera sweeps, fades, and multiple scenes looked like they were from a cheap sitcom and outright corny at times. In short, the cinematography stunk. In my opinion a movie is good if you don't notice the technical, alright if you think it's good, and terrible if it disturbs your viewing experience. Three stars is generous for this film.- Wanderer1983
The concept for the film is simple enough: Follow the tribulations and triumphs of America's most beloved blues master, from his meager beginnings and his personal struggles, to his final absolution and victory in the face of poverty, discrimination, disability, and substance abuse. Unfortunately, what would seem like a relatively easy target to hit seems difficult for writer and director Taylor Hackford. In his effort to bend a life-spanning biopic into a plot Hollywood would be proud of, he aims far too wide and misses the mark in what could have been a spectacular and heartfelt work. In other words, while searching for a narrative thread to tie the biopic together, Hackford tries to pack too much information in, and ends up detracting from the film's potency. Indeed, the movie lasts over 2 1/2 hours, and still seems unfinished when the epilogue begins to appear on screen. See this movie for the acting of Jamie Foxx, Kerry Washington (Charles' wife), Regina King (his girlfriend), and Sharon Warren (his mother). See it for the obviously wonderful soundtrack (despite the fact that most songs were shortened to 30 second clips). See it for the movie it could have been, and truly appreciate the touching pieces that cry out from under the smothering biopic blanket.
- Travis Marshall
Ray doesnt glorify Ray Charles, instead showing him as a deeply flawed, and real, person. Still, the film is hurt by trying to deal with so many complex subjects: love and fidelity, addiction, racism, trust. Even though its a long flick at two and a half hours, it doesnt deal with these themes satisfactorily and ends abruptly. The power and innovation of Charles music will be lost on those too young to remember him as anyone but a Diet Pepsi endorser. Everyone has already said it: Foxx does deliver a great performance. Not the years best picture, but enjoyable nonetheless.
- The Bergoi
I was completely surprised with Ray. From the first time I saw pictures of Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles, I knew that I wanted to like the movie. I wanted it to be good. But I was worried that I might not get what I wanted. Well, I got what I wanted and so much more. I thought Ray told a wonderful story that couldn't have been done any better. I loved the way the flashbacks were used; they were well placed and well though out. The entire film was paced perfectly. Even though the film clocked in at about two and a half hours, I was completely captivated the entire time. Everything about Ray was just right. But the best part wasn't the story or the script, it was Jamie Foxx's performance. I have unfortunately not seen any of the other performances that were nominated for Best Actor, but I don't see how they could be any better than Foxx. Seeing him smiling and swaying like Ray Charles was such a beautiful thing, I can't describe it. It'll be a shame if Foxx doesn't walk away with that Academy Award. The DVD was good, but I felt like it was a missed opportunity. The entire mix was generally very front heavy, only using the surrounds on a few occasions. But, considering this was a dialog and music driven drama, that's the way it should have been. The sound mix didn't seem quite dynamic enough. I felt like there was something missing, but I can't put my finger on what. The video presentation was adequate, but not outstanding. The detail level varied from scene to scene, as did the colors. Overall, everything looked decent, but could have been better. No major complaints here, but also no major praise. Ray is an absolute must see. Everything about this film is amazing. Foxx's performance is second to none, and he is backed up by a very strong supporting cast. Last, but certainly not least, the soundtrack is one of the best ever...
- eclapham
This was an awesome movie. It tells the story of Ray Charles, and to be honest with you, I really wasnt that interested. I only wanted to see it because I was so impressed with Jamie Foxxs performance in Collateral. Jamie did a fantastic job in this film, and he won an Oscar for his performance. Throughout most of the movie he looked nothing like Ray, but yet he became him in such a way that his looks were not important. If you havent seen this movie yet, I highly recommend it. It is a wonderful human drama about making mistakes, and being human.
- qmi 298100
Jamie Foxx does what he can with this critically praised and historically faithful dramatic "biography" of the iconic singer. Unfortunately I didn't find it as interesting as the similar Walk the Line (Johnny Cash). A quality movie on several levels but not one I'd own or have any desire to see again.
- Creeper
Could not give this movie a full five stars even though Jamie Foxx's Oscar winning performance certainly deserves five stars. If I could, I would have awarded Foxx Most Valuable Player along with his Oscar because I feel that without Foxx's incredible performance this film would simply not be very interesting. It has a good heart, but simply tries to do too much and individual parts of Ray Charles' life seem to suffer. I would have liked to have seen more about Charles' Civil Rights involvement for instance--the film has a couple of good scenes then sort of glosses it over. The film has a sort of made for tv movie feel about it at times. Supporting cast members did not turn in very compelling performances execept for Ray Charles' mother and wife. This is not a bad film overall, but Jamie Foxx's performance as Ray Charles makes it approach greatness. Rent this for the pleasure of Jamie Foxx!
- TH Reviews
I loved this movie. First of all, I loved redemption stories and this is a redemption story. I also loved the way they dealt with his heroin addiction - they faced it head on. I love reality - if there is a happily ever after. And Ray Charles's life was a happily ever after. Oh, he had to fight to get there, but that's the way life is - hard and gritty and hopefully, good. I liked the fact that they didn't play around pretending his heroin addiction didn't exist. They dealt with that head-on. I hate it when true movies downplay the dirtier side of life. For example, Walk The Line, there is a cover-up of the true drug addiction in the life of Johnny Cash. But not in Ray - there was no white-washing of the truth. The movie showed that Ray was not an angel. In fact, his standing up for civil rights and against Jim Crow was almost an accident. But when push came to shove, he was able at times to come through. And I say at times that he failed to do the right thing - but this is what made this movie so great - it showed people at their best and at their worst, like they really are.
- VIP Club