Ray

Is there a role Jamie Foxx can't pull off with the style of a more seasoned pro? I think not. He does comedy. He does drama. He does action. He transforms, and takes us along for the ride. Thank you Mr. Foxx.

Dirctor Taylor Hackford (An Officer and a Gentleman, Devil's Advocate, and Proof of Life) gets a great deal of the credit for this film, no doubt. But it is all about the title character really, and Hackford was clearly smart enough to let the actors do their thing.

If you have read any of my other posts, you know I like a well-done biopic. This sets the bar very, very high. And if you know a little more, you'll know I'm a Ray Charles fan. The soundtrack to this movie should be a part of everyone's collection.

Jamie Foxx met with Ray Charles to study him and discuss how to play him at the various stages in the movie. Jamie studied at the Braille Institute to better help him portray Ray. Jamie even wore special contacts that rendered him blind during filming. What more could we ask for? Oh yes, Jamie Foxx also played the piano is all scenes. No wonder he won the Best Actor Oscar that year?

The supporting cast is wonderful, and too numerous to mention, but they too do a terrific job of not over-playing their character and letting the star's story be told.

Interestingly enough, this movie was shot as an independent film. Universal only picked it up for distribution after filming and editing were complete. I'm guessing there are now about 124 million reasons some studio suits are wishing they had more of an imagination.

There is a little something in this movie for everyone. Besides the music, which is first rate, there is comedy, drama, history, and great cinematography. There are even some great pick-up lines for you single guys, and the thing about wrists is brilliant.

Watch this movie with someone who knows how to Bogaloo.