10 Performances In Film Biopics That Actually Get It Right
4. Jamie Foxx - Ray
A tragic, yet inspired retelling of music icon Ray Charles' career, the 2004 film starring Kerry Washington and Jamie Foxx is worthy of immense praise, and one actor in particular is often at the centre of the adoration.
Scooping up an Academy Award for his take on Georgia-born R&B and soul singer Ray Charles, Foxx' dedication to achieving authenticity for the character was evident, and widespread recognition for this feat was endless.
Ray is honest, and often paints the soul icon in a less than desirable light. Delving into Charles' infidelity and drug abuse, the film doesn't try to preserve his legacy, instead retelling it in a way that chronicles his journey from humble beginnings to music royalty.
It's the moments of great adversity that Jamie Foxx shines best. His impressive recreation of Charles' twitches and slights away from the piano and unrelenting swagger at the keys is amazing, and seeing the actor depict a man fighting with success and overcoming addiction is insight that fans of the music never previously had.
Ray Charles himself never got to see the theatrical release before his death in the summer of 2004, which is a great shame given just how well Foxx' homage turned out.