“I’m not blind. I just can’t see.”
synopsis
Directed by Taylor Hackford, Ray chronicles the life of legendary musician Ray Charles from his impoverished childhood and early blindness to international stardom. The film explores his groundbreaking fusion of gospel, blues, and country — as well as his struggles with heroin addiction and complicated relationships. It presents Charles as both innovator and deeply flawed human being.
pairs well with ...
mini-review
Jamie Foxx delivers a transformative performance — vocally, physically, emotionally. He doesn’t imitate; he inhabits. The musical sequences are electric, but the film doesn’t shy away from Ray’s darker chapters, particularly his addiction and infidelity. It follows the traditional rise-fall-redemption structure, but Foxx’s performance gives it authenticity. You feel the music, not just hear it.
Turn the volume up. Good for a Friday evening. Might inspire spontaneous dancing in the living room.
Absurdist's Corner
A blind musician becomes one of the most visually expressive performers in American music history — sunglasses and grin included.
fun facts
Jamie Foxx wore prosthetic eyelids glued shut during filming to simulate blindness.
Foxx won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance.
Ray Charles personally approved Foxx for the role before his death.